Digitalisation and changes in the world of work

Abstract

"Digitalisation in the workplace covers a variety of digital technologies and fast-developing applications, ranging from digital communication and information tools (ICT) to robots and artificial intelligence (AI). These technologies all shape work to very different degrees, from platform work to the gig economy to algorithmic management and digital surveillance. The Covid-19 pandemic has brought with it an explosion in demand for remote and platform work and has accelerated the digital transformation of many regular workplaces in the European Union. Assessments of the benefits and downsides of the impact of digital technologies vary greatly. Hopes contrast with fears and the discussion about possible consequences on employment (demand for work) and working conditions (job quality) is quite polarised. To decide on appropriate policies and measures that are mindful of the need to mitigate possible harms of digitalisation for workers, politicians should ensure that their decisions are based on sound evidence. Sound empirical research is all the more important given that dominant, discursive expectations on the impact of workplace digitalisation are not always based on empirical evidence. The aim of this review study is to provide the Members of the EMPL committee with an updated overview of findings from research on the consequences of digital technologies that are already having an impact in the workplace. The literature review presents recent empirical (quantitative) impact studies and supplement these with qualitative research findings from relevant case studies." (Text excerpt, IAB-Doku) ((en))

Cite article

Konle-Seidl, R. & Danesi, S. (2022): Digitalisation and changes in the world of work. Literature Review. Study Requested by the EMPL Committee. Brüssel, 47 p. DOI:10.2861/291260