Much public discussion about the ways in which artificial intelligence (AI) could change work and employment to impact on workers and jobs has focused on changes to task and job content, on AI substituting for humans in particular occupations, and on the possible effects on overall employment. The spotlight has been on questions about job displacement and whether and what new jobs might be created. These are critical issues. However, the significant consequences of AI for work and employment also include negative impacts on job quality and working conditions due to AI-based automation of management.
Cogs in the machine is a report concerned with the phenomenon of AI-based algorithmic management (AM), which involves the use of AI to undertake management functions using automated decision making, surveillance of workers, and large-scale collection and analysis of workers’ data.
The promise of AM for organisations, as with the promise of AI for all kinds of jobs and tasks, is that it will improve efficiency and productivity. However, as outlined in this report, the evidence suggests there are mixed results in regard to achievement of these benefits. At the same time, there can be little doubt that AM practices are generating unacceptable risks and harms with significant negative consequences for workers. The growing body of evidence includes consistent findings of negative consequences for job quality and working conditions, health and safety, and workers’ dignity and freedom to exercise their rights in the workplace.
In this report we unpack the practices associated with AM and considers how they differ from the use of previous technologies in the workplace. We report on the evidence and insights taken from a review of relevant international and Australian research, practice and policy literature regarding current and emerging AM practices and their consequences for workers.