Artificial intelligence, well-being and gig work: a systematic literature review and future research agenda
Pooja Singh, Priyanka Sadhna, SujoodPurpose
The purpose of the study is to examine how artificial intelligence (AI) platforms are empowering the gig workforce, while also posing challenges and impediments. The study provides a comprehensive understanding on positive influence of AI algorithms on economic gains and employment opportunities, while accentuating significant drawbacks adding to existing vulnerabilities, risks, stress, burnout, fatigue and depressive symptoms among gig workers.
Design/methodology/approach
This study follows a systematic literature review methodology. Using a structured search strategy, relevant articles were identified through Scopus database focusing on peer reviewed journal articles published in English.
Findings
The findings suggest that influence of AI platforms on the gig workers’ wellbeing varies depending on the type of gig work. Platform based workers are experiencing digital injustice such as surveillance stress and algorithmic bias. Freelancers face issues regarding high expectations of customers, ranking pressure on AI platforms and also income insecurity. Contract workers struggle with workload, stress and limited career opportunities. On the other hand, AI platforms positively influence autonomy, job crafting, flexibility and work life balance.
Research limitations/implications
The study helps organisations, AI developers and policymakers to customise the AI platforms in terms of designing and controlling. The findings are essential for developing safeguard mechanisms and foster wellbeing among gig workers including all genders, race, minorities and marginalised communities.
Originality/value
This systematic literature review will support the leaders to comprehensively understand the wellbeing issues of gig workforce and the measures to resolve the roadblocks faced by them. The research fills the gap in understanding the positive and negative influence of AI across varied gig workers’ categories and provides the scope for future research for drafting initiatives, interventions and contextual strategies.