This report by McKinsey Global Institute analyses the automation potential of the global economy, the factors that will determine the pace and extent of workplace adoption, and the economic impact associated with its potential. Based on scenario modelling, the report estimates automation could raise productivity growth globally by 0.8 to 1.4 percent annually. The analysis shows that humans will still be needed in the workforce: the total productivity gains estimated in the report will only come about if people work alongside machines. That in turn will fundamentally alter the workplace, requiring a new degree of cooperation between workers and technology.