Submitted 2 months ago by throws_lemy@lemmy.nz to workreform@lemmy.world
https://www.theregister.com/2025/03/18/amazon_algorithmic_worker_management
The title is vague, so here’s the title of the actual study the article is based on:
Weaponizing the Workplace: How Algorithmic Management Shaped Amazon’s Antiunion Campaign in Bessemer, Alabama>
Also, the problem isn’t the algorithms used for the work. The problem is the metrics they expect employees to consistently hit. The technology isn’t the problem, they just expect too much from their employees.
Source: Worked in a lot of different Amazon buildings
THIS JUST IN: BREAKING NEWS FROM A DECADE AGO
Here is my question, why would they want to do that? Like I get that they want to maximize productivity, but if you keep pushing them, then eventually people quit. Don’t they still need workers?
The strategy so far has to just hire new ones. The job is so on the rails anyone can do it. The machine tells you where to go, which items to pick up etc
But I think they are starting to run out of workers
As Evotech said already, they churn through their tier 1 workers at a breakneck pace anyway. Pushing them harder won’t make the issues worse, it’s already bad. Plus they are continually striving to automate everything possible, so eventually many low level jobs at the warehouse will be automated
For warehouse positions, at least a decade ago, “hiring events” consisted of showing up with a valid driver’s license. I think they did a background check. No interview. Boom, you’ve got a job.
They effectively have an infinite labor supply and have everything structured to be incredibly resistant to what little room there is for error.
justsomeguy@lemmy.world 2 months ago
Many people who have been in abusive work situations know that there’s a point when you should leave but the constant drain from the abuse keeps you in a state of exhaustion that prevents any action. It’s often only once this makes you so physically sick that you have to take the time off and realize this can’t go on any longer.
I believe this is the zone where Amazon wants to keep their employees. Fully exhausted, given up on any possible improvement.
If you find yourself in a situation like this, run like fuck.
catloaf@lemm.ee 2 months ago
Ok but what do I do when it’s the entire country
wizardbeard@lemmy.dbzer0.com 2 months ago
Emigrate?