cfry@watdcsu.waterloo.edu (C.Fry - Inst. Computer Research) (03/09/88)
Computerized Workplace Surveillance
by
Prof. Andrew Clement
of
Department of Computer Science and Mathematics
Atkinson College, York University
Abstract
Accompanying the spread of computer applications for production
is the growing practice of monitoring worker performance. Em-
ployees in an increasing number of occupations are finding that
details of the work they do are recorded by computer and reported
to their superiors for the purpose of evaluation and discipline.
Examples of how this technique has been applied to clerical,
technical, professional and managerial personnel are discussed.
The adverse effects are examined from the point of view of the
employees and the organization as well as at a broader societal
level.
An exploration of the rationales underlying the adoption of sur-
veillance techniques concludes that the practice is deeply embed-
ded in a managerial paradigm of control reflecting the
(mis)application of basic cybernetic principles. An alternative
approach to automated work measurement that takes advantage of
the feedback possibilities offered by computerization while pro-
tecting individual privacy rights is presented. The implications
for systems designers and implementors of this approach, which
relies upon the initiative and autonomy of computer users, are
emphasized.
DATE: Wednesday March 16, 1988
TIME: 3:30 p.m.
PLACE: MC 5158
Everyone is welcome. Refreshments served.