Oracle reports sustained revenue growth, driven by its artificial intelligence and cloud business. However, the company has executed layoffs affecting thousands of employees. The decision has caused unrest among workers, who denounce the lack of adequate compensation packages. The case reflects a trend where automation and AI replace jobs, even in companies that directly benefit from these technologies.
The cloud and AI as an excuse for restructuring 🤖
From a technical perspective, Oracle has redirected resources towards its Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) and generative AI application divisions. This involves closing local data centers and centralizing operations. Layoffs are concentrated in areas such as sales and technical support, where process automation reduces the need for human teams. The company prioritizes operational efficiency, but the transition leaves professionals with decades of experience out of the market without a clear reintegration plan.
Laid off with honors, but without severance 😅
Former Oracle employees have been given a virtual diploma of thank you for your service and a link to update their LinkedIn. The company, which promised a bright future with the cloud, now recommends they train in AI to find work. Of course: the training is at their own expense. Meanwhile, executives celebrate quarterly earnings with a smile that probably doesn't fit on a 27-inch screen.