THE RISE OF THE “JUST-IN-TIME WORKFORCE”: ON-DEMAND WORK, CROWDWORK, AND LABOR PROTECTION IN THE “GIG-ECONOMY”

THE RISE OF THE “JUST-IN-TIME WORKFORCE”: ON-DEMAND WORK, CROWDWORK, AND LABOR PROTECTION IN THE “GIG-ECONOMY”

6/2/2016 3:12 PM | Valerio De Stefano
This article provides an analytical overview of the labor implications of the "gig-economy," which includes two main forms of work: "crowdwork" and "work-on-demand via app." Crowdwork involves completing tasks through online platforms, while work-on-demand via app channels traditional working activities such as transport, cleaning, and clerical work through apps managed by firms that set quality standards and manage the workforce. Estimating the number of gig-economy workers is challenging due to the reluctance of businesses to disclose data and the complexity of worker registration. The gig-economy offers opportunities for flexible working schedules and job opportunities but also leads to severe commodification of work, with workers often classified as independent contractors. The article argues that the gig-economy should not be seen as a separate dimension of the labor market but is part of broader trends like casualization and demutualization of risk. It discusses the risks of misclassification of employment relationships, the practical consequences of hiding the nature of work, and the challenges of providing labor protections. The article concludes by suggesting policy directions for addressing these issues.This article provides an analytical overview of the labor implications of the "gig-economy," which includes two main forms of work: "crowdwork" and "work-on-demand via app." Crowdwork involves completing tasks through online platforms, while work-on-demand via app channels traditional working activities such as transport, cleaning, and clerical work through apps managed by firms that set quality standards and manage the workforce. Estimating the number of gig-economy workers is challenging due to the reluctance of businesses to disclose data and the complexity of worker registration. The gig-economy offers opportunities for flexible working schedules and job opportunities but also leads to severe commodification of work, with workers often classified as independent contractors. The article argues that the gig-economy should not be seen as a separate dimension of the labor market but is part of broader trends like casualization and demutualization of risk. It discusses the risks of misclassification of employment relationships, the practical consequences of hiding the nature of work, and the challenges of providing labor protections. The article concludes by suggesting policy directions for addressing these issues.
Reach us at info@study.space