2020 brings new horizons, and exciting career opportunities!
It’s time to plan your working year – Will you stay? Will you go? Go part-time? A career change?
Consider your co-workers, boss, promotion prospects, and overall job satisfaction.
But what about workplace surveillance?
Last year, Domino’s Pizza received widespread criticism for spying on their employees, after introducing new technology to assess the quality of pizzas being prepared in real time. In-store cameras “use advanced machine learning, artificial intelligence and sensor technology to make a real-time assessment as to whether a pizza is quality approved – based on pizza type, correct toppings and even distribution”. If the pizza is deemed unsatisfactory, workers must make it again.
The All-Seeing Eye of Workplace Surveillance
Workplace surveillance isn’t limited to fast food.
Many workplaces use cameras, sensors and Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms to monitor and manage people, as well as using digital systems to compare activity data with personnel files and sales performance figures. By 2030, 80% of Project Management positions are expected to be filled by AI systems. Employees often do not have an automatic right to see their data.
These systems are designed to boost worker productivity, but may be damaging the wellbeing of workers. When an employee feels trusted and respected by their employer, they are more likely to be motivated, productive and happy. Being under constant surveillance can foster anxiety and can damage this trust, ultimately doing more harm than good. The use of surveillance may also discourage workers from taking their necessary breaks or from spending time in creative thought. These are issues employers should consider when managing their workplace strategies.
Read this article in The Guardian for information on how UK businesses are using artificial intelligence to monitor staff activity.
If you need advice about any employment or business-related matter, Martin Bullock Lawyers can assist you. Call Greg or Jacqueline on (02) 9687 9322.