Is the Platform Work Autonomous? The Effect of Online Labor Platform Algorithm Management on Job Autonomy

Abstract

The development of digital technology has created new and flexible forms of employment. The online labor platform connects the employee and the employer through the Internet. Based on algorithm technology and data information, it rapidly and accurately matches the labor supply and demand. Previous studies reveal that the online labor platform, as a new place for workers to achieve flexible employment and create value under the gig economy background, provides a more flexible and independent work opportunity. The online platform has strengthened the control for the labor process by adopting algorithm technology, and the difference between the worker’s constrains of autonomy in workplace behavior and subjective perceptions of the increased autonomy, that is, the job autonomy paradox has gradually attracted attention from the academia circle.This paper systematically sorts out the related literature of online labor platform algorithm management and job autonomy, and discusses the core question of “is the platform work autonomous”. Subsequently, from the perspective of transaction cost theory, the representative research results of algorithm management affecting job autonomy are reviewed. At the same time, it explains the formation mechanism and influence effect of the autonomy paradox based on the theory of power dependence, and finally draws the following conclusions: Firstly, online labor platform algorithm management influences job autonomy from the work preparation stage, the work execution stage and the work feedback stage respectively. Specifically, in addition to the algorithm technology connectivity to realize the flexible and autonomous matching of labor supply and demand, which is conducive to the improvement of job autonomy, algorithm management weakens job autonomy from task allocation, behavior control, digital reputation, performance evaluation and dynamic compensation, etc. Secondly, algorithm management weakens the autonomy of workers and reduces job autonomy. In this case, platform workers are trapped in the negative cycle of autonomy paradox, which is constantly extending working hours and increasing labor intensity to strengthen labor. The formation mechanism of autonomy paradox can be based on the power dependence theory. Thirdly, the autonomy paradox will have a negative impact on workers from psychological and behavioral levels, which will eventually hinder the long-term development of the organization.However, there are still many deficiencies in existing studies, and future research could be done along the following lines: Firstly, the concept of algorithm management could be defined in a structured and systematic way. Secondly, future research could focus on promoting empirical study with multiple methods and technical means. Thirdly, future research could enrich theoretical perspectives to explain the mechanism of online labor platform algorithm management affecting job autonomy and the formation mechanism of autonomy paradox. Fourthly, future research could explore the boundary condition of autonomy paradox. Finally, future research could expand local studies in the context of China.