The impact of IoT and 3D printing on job quality and work organisation: a snapshot from Spain

Rafael Grande (), Alberto Vallejo-Peña () and Maria Cesira Urzì Brancati
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Rafael Grande: University of Malaga
Alberto Vallejo-Peña: University of Malaga

No 2021-10, JRC Working Papers on Labour, Education and Technology from Joint Research Centre

Abstract: This paper analyses how the introduction of advanced digital technologies affected the business model, work organisation, and job quality in selected establishments in Spain. The focus is on two technologies: 3D printing and Internet of things (IoT). Two case studies were carried out in Spain: TTI-Algeciras (stowage and logistic port container terminal) and Airbus (manufacture of aerospace and defence equipment). A qualitative research methodology through semi-structured interviews was implemented. The results show the selected digital technologies has a positive impact on the busi-ness model of TTI-Algeciras and Airbus, either by increasing efficiency and competitiveness, or by improving work organisation. The main findings in terms of job quality, are: improvements in the physical environment resulting from a reduction in occupational hazards: the upskilling of the work-force, due to the need of new technical skills; the increase in worker responsibility and autonomy to the detriment of routine tasks; and, on the negative side, an intensification of work that is now de-termined by the technology. The analysis also shows the importance of communication and new ways of organising teamwork as a crucial factor for the successful introduction of digital technolo-gies in both companies. Finally, the consequences of the restrictive measures against Covid-19 during 2020 have favoured an acceleration of technological change in the workplace.

Keywords: 3D printing; Internet of Things (IoT); digitisation; digitalisation; digital technologies; future of work (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 44 pages
Date: 2021-06
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-ict
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:ipt:laedte:202110

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