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Given the multifaceted roles administrative professionals will play in the next decade, the current designation, "administrative assistant," may not be sufficient to convey the scope and depth of their skills and expertise. As a result, new titles that reflect greater specialization will emerge. By 2020, administrative personnel will likely fulfill many of the functions identified below:
- Resource Coordinator — Virtual offices that employ numerous contract workers will rely heavily on individuals adept at bringing together the right human resources for a given project — much like movie producers assembling a cast, camera crew and production team.
- Workflow Controller — This individual will serve as "mission control" for an organization. Whereas the resource coordinator will assemble project teams, the workflow controller will ensure these professionals have the support and resources required to do their jobs. This position also will facilitate interaction among teams and coordinate the transfer and use of company resources such as computers, communications equipment and other technological tools. In smaller organizations, the same person may perform workflow control and resource coordination.
- Knowledge Manager — In the more fluid and project–based office of the future, this central figure will serve as a repository of institutional information, history and best practices. The knowledge manager will ensure continuity and consistency, and help new employees and project professionals adapt to the organization's culture. In addition, the knowledge manager will perform a function similar to that of a librarian, assisting people in locating the documents or data necessary to perform their jobs.
- Telecommuting Liaison — As the number of off–site workers increases, companies will designate a telecommuter liaison to connect remote workers with each other and management. In some instances, individuals in this position will work with senior management to develop telecommuting policies, including helping to determine which positions are suited for off–site work. Day–to–day responsibilities will include managing telecommuting schedules and providing technical support and updates to telecommuters regarding changes in operational procedures and company policies.
- Virtual–Meetings Organizer — This person will help employees schedule conferences and set up the necessary equipment. The virtual–meetings organizer will be technically proficient and trained in the use of cameras, projection systems, electronic whiteboards, meeting software, audio equipment and related tools.
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