Algorithmic control in platform and non-platform work contexts: Structural differences and wicked control problems

Martin Wiener, W. Alec Cram and Alexander Benlian

Publications of Darmstadt Technical University, Institute for Business Studies (BWL) from Darmstadt Technical University, Department of Business Administration, Economics and Law, Institute for Business Studies (BWL)

Abstract: Organizations increasingly leverage intelligent algorithms to control workers, referred to as algorithmic control (AC). While the use of AC systems is already commonplace in platform work contexts (e.g., ride-hailing), it is now also gaining traction in “traditional” (i.e., non-platform) contexts. Against this backdrop, this chapter sets out to examine key structural differences between the two contexts and relate these differences to three “wicked” control problems: control alignment, legitimacy, and transmission. Drawing on the AC literature, we identify concrete manifestations of the problems and discuss how contextual differences create, amplify, or mitigate these problem manifestations, or even render them irrelevant. A general finding from our analysis is that the implementation of AC systems in non-platform organizations presents additional and unique challenges, particularly due to the heightened risk of control misalignments and legitimacy concerns. The chapter concludes with an outline of context-specific research opportunities regarding the design and use of AC systems

Date: 2026-05
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