The New Road to Serfdom: The Impact of Technology-Mediated Control on Worker Autonomy

Abstract

The gig economy, controlled by machines and governed by algorithms, has engulfed blue-collar gig workers. Gig economy platforms such as Uber, Deliveroo and Foodora are pioneers of algorithmic management techniques. In parallel, the rapid development of automation has become particularly relevant in the context of white-collar work, where automation technologies have become increasingly capable of taking over a major portion of traditionally human tasks.

This multiple-case study investigates how technology-mediated control (TMC) impacts blue-collar- and white-collar workers' experience of work life autonomy. The study looks at Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in white-collar work and mobile apps in blue-collar work. The findings are studied by utilising the CIMO-logic in order to understand control mechanisms and the METUX model to investigate the spheres of experienced autonomy.

TMC is found to simultaneously enhance autonomy and control for both blue- and white-collar workers. While the workers experience that the technologies augment perceived autonomy, TMC is found to challenge the balance between autonomy and control. Findings in blue-collar work reveal that autonomy in scheduling work is not entirely transferred to the worker, but is rather a disciplinary incentive and a way of controlling and guiding the workforce through the apps. Findings in white-collar work demonstrate that the benefits of being relieved by RPA are coupled with role modifications, no new tasks and little comprehensive understanding of the process. Further, the research identifies tensions in four spheres of experienced autonomy in each case, where the technologies are found to both enhance and constrain autonomy.

The findings contribute to the field of TMC by identifying tensions which provide greater insight for practice and research. The findings will hopefully inspire further development in organisational IT strategy and management systems and future research within the field of TMC. The study also recognises the need for more research on TMC in white-collar work environments.