Workplace wellbeing apps: Unpacking the hidden data collection practices that compromise employee autonomy
Original framing: “Your voice, your typing, your sleep – what workplace wellbeing apps are really analysing” — The Conversation - Global
The use of workplace surveillance and data collection has a long history, dating back to the early 20th century. The rise of wellbeing apps in the modern workplace is part of a broader trend towards increased monitoring and control of employees. Score: 0.9
The use of wellbeing apps in the workplace raises significant concerns about employee autonomy, data privacy, and the potential for exploitation.
By implementing transparent data collection and use policies, developing employee-centered wellbeing initiatives, promoting digital literacy and critical thinking, and establishing employee-led wellbeing committees, employers can help mitigate these risks and promote a more equitable and supportive work environment. The historical context of workplace surveillance, including the use of Taylorism and other forms of scientific management, highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of the power dynamics at play. By centering the perspectives of marginalized employees and prioritizing employee autonomy and agency, employers can create a more just and equitable workplace culture.