Technological change has the power to transform the world of work. Recent advancements in automation, surveillance, and management technologies present unique challenges to workers and unions in the coming years. These challenges have the potential to displace jobs and powerfully alter the employment relationship and quality of work.
Often discussions of technology and work focus on moments of great disruption—historical instances where entire industries are displaced or abolished. These are important moments, but so too are the quiet moments of change. Issues of work speed-up, on-demand rosters facilitated by management apps, and surveillance are pressing concerns too.