Algorithmic Gig Work

The Challenge

The rise of platform-based gig work has introduced algorithmic management systems that control worker access, evaluation, compensation, and task allocation with limited transparency or accountability. These systems create new forms of precarious labor and power asymmetries. Key concerns include:

• Opaque Decision Systems: Workers are subject to algorithmic decisions about pay, ratings, and work access without understanding how these systems operate or how to effectively appeal decisions.
• Wage Suppression: Dynamic pricing algorithms and opaque payment systems can systematically undervalue work and create unpredictable income fluctuations that transfer risk to workers.
• Surveillance and Control: Intensive monitoring and performance metrics create high-stress work environments with limited worker autonomy and constant pressure to meet algorithmic expectations.
• Misclassification: Platform workers often lack employment protections despite being subject to algorithmic control that functions similarly to traditional management, creating a governance gap.

Our Approach

The Global Tech Governance Institute takes a worker-centered approach to addressing algorithmic gig work challenges:

• Transparency Standards: Developing standards and guidelines for algorithmic transparency in platform work, including pay calculation, rating systems, and task allocation.
• Worker Voice: Researching and promoting models for worker participation in the governance and oversight of algorithmic management systems.
• Policy Frameworks: Creating governance frameworks that ensure fair treatment, reasonable compensation, and appropriate protections for platform workers.
• Alternative Models: Exploring and supporting alternative platform ownership and governance structures, including worker cooperatives and multi-stakeholder platforms.

Current Initiatives

Our work in this area currently includes:

• Platform Accountability Index: A monitoring initiative that evaluates major gig platforms on transparency, fairness, and worker voice in their algorithmic management systems.
• Worker Data Rights Project: A research and advocacy initiative developing frameworks for worker rights to access, understand, and challenge data and algorithms used to manage their work.
• Algorithmic Fairness Lab: A technical initiative developing tools and methodologies to audit platform algorithms for fairness and bias in task allocation, pricing, and evaluation.
• Platform Cooperativism Network: A collaborative initiative supporting the development and scaling of worker-owned platform alternatives that prioritize fair compensation and democratic governance.