What is the process called when machines perform tasks that were previously done by humans?

The process where machines perform tasks that were once completed by humans is referred to as automation. This process involves the use of technology to carry out tasks with minimal human intervention, often resulting in increased efficiency, consistency, and productivity. Automation can be seen in various sectors, including manufacturing, where machines can operate assembly lines or control systems autonomously.

Mechanisation, while related, specifically refers to the introduction of machinery to replace manual labor in production processes. This has been a critical step in enhancing productivity and changing labor dynamics, but it does not fully encompass the broader concept of automation, which includes the ability of machines to perform tasks independently.

Industrialisation pertains to the widespread development of industries and the transition from agricultural to industrial economies. It encompasses a period when mechanisation and automation became more prevalent, but it does not solely define the relationship between machines and human labor.

Globalisation is the process of increasing interconnectedness and interdependence among countries, often through trade, investment, and cultural exchange. While it can involve technological advancements, it does not specifically address the replacement of human tasks by machines.

Therefore, automation most accurately describes the process by which machines take over tasks that humans once performed, emphasizing the role of technology in modern work environments.