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Gig work and the platform economy
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Date
2024-06-11
Authors
Duggan, James
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Edward Elgar Publishing
Published Version
Abstract
The emergence of the gig economy and its associated labour forms represents a significant disruptor in the world of work. Structured around platform organisations that digitally connect freelance workers with customers to perform short, once-off tasks or ‘gigs’ (Adams-Prassl, 2022; Cennamo, 2019), work in the gig economy typically centres on the provision of on-demand services for customers, such as transportation, food or grocery delivery, and cleaning or DIY services (Duggan et al., 2022). This chapter reviews key trends in the gig economy and its implications for work and employment. The chapter begins by tracing the emergence and growth of gig work, highlighting noteworthy developments and controversies that have contributed to current understandings. Next, several employment-based issues in gig work will be explored, specifically considering the unique roles of platform organisations and workers in this novel context. From the platform organisation perspective, the chapter examines the prevalence and strategic use of algorithms to manage and coordinate gig workforces. From the worker perspective, the focus is on understanding the lived experiences of those who partake in gig work, particularly in seeking to recognise the positives, negatives, and uncertainties of this unique working arrangement. Finally, the chapter concludes by considering potential future directions in this new economy, with a focus on combining research and policy-based approaches to address some of the notable tensions that dominate current discourse.
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Keywords
Gig work , Gig economy , Digital platforms , Algorithmic management , Future of work , Precarious work
Citation
Duggan, J. (2024) 'Gig work and the platform economy', in Procter, S. (ed.) A Research Agenda for Work and Employment. Cheltenham, United Kingdom: Edward Elgar Publishing, pp. 155-171. https://doi.org/10.4337/9781803929972.00016