Dynamics of Gig Work Economy: An Investigation of Worker Perspectives on Gig Work

Abstract

Online technology has developed to an extent where traditional labor markets have transformed, creating opportunities for people and businesses to participate in the global marketplace by employing contract labor. Application-based transportation including ridesharing apps, food and commodity delivery platform apps, and other consumer-facing services brought in the concepts of flexible work reshaping gig work into the mainstream creating millions of jobs in the areas of operation. Even though the gig economy provides flexibility in work, the real situation of the gig workforce seems very complex. The article discusses the impacts of the gig economy on labor markets by identifying the challenges faced by gig workers in the online labor market and the impact of gig economy on their health and well-being. A detailed field research conducted among the gig workers in the state of Kerala aided examining the labor market trends, motives, and effect beyond the gig economy. It further supplemented developing specific actions to accelerate the development of the gig economy to ensure worker protection and safety needs in creating an inclusive economy.