WorkshopFairwork Algorithmic Management in Platform Work
XU Exponential University, Potsdam in collaboration with Berlin Social Science Center (WZB)
About the Workshop
This one-day expert workshop brings together researchers, unions, NGOs, platform representatives, and policy/practice actors to examine how algorithmic management shapes working conditions and representation in the German platform economy.
The workshop approaches algorithmic management as a socio-technical accountability challenge that extends beyond narrow transparency debates. It explores how worker rights, regulatory requirements, and sustainable business models can be better aligned to support a flourishing and equitable platform economy.
Why This Workshop Now
Regulatory Momentum
AI Act & Platform Work Directive shaping new regulations
Changing Labour Dynamics
Shifts in power, data, and representation in platform work
Accountability Challenges
Building practical models for fair and inclusive algorithmic management
Concept & Framing
The workshop conceptualises algorithmic management as a socio-technical system that structures labour processes, allocates risks, and redistributes power across platforms, workers, and regulators.
Rather than focusing exclusively on transparency, the workshop foregrounds accountability, participation, and co-determination. It connects empirical research with regulatory debates and practice-based perspectives from worker organisations and platform governance initiatives.
Programme Overview
Opening session: context & goals
Labour Process & Algorithmic Management
Data Power & Platform Accountability
Participation & Co-Governing AM
Closing Discussion: Next Steps
Speakers
Main Academic Inputs
Dr Heiner Heiland
University of Göttingen
Labour process and algorithmic management
Dr Jessica Pidoux
HESTIA.AI / PersonalData.IO
Data power, worker organisation, and platform accountability
Dr Anne Mollen
former AlgorithmWatch / University of Münster
AI, participation and co-determination
Moderation & Discussants
- Dr Patrick Feuerstein & WZB Fairwork Team
- Worker representatives from the Lieferando Works Council
- Policy & NGO Stakeholders (to be confirmed)
Request a Place
We have a limited number of additional seats (approx. 35–40) for researchers, unions, NGOs, platform representatives, and policy/practice actors working on platform work, algorithmic management, worker representation, or related governance questions.
Places are limited due to room size and the interactive format.