The Working Day Experience of Bicycle Messengers
Author Information
Author(s): Hjelle Iben Østin, Nordrum Helle, Wentzeck Julian-Werner, Teymoori Ali
Primary Institution: University of Bergen
Hypothesis
How do bicycle messengers perceive their job autonomy in the context of platform work and its algorithmic management?
Conclusion
Bicycle messengers experience a paradoxical sense of autonomy and powerlessness due to algorithmic control, impacting their wellbeing and identity.
Supporting Evidence
- Bicycle messengers report feeling both autonomous and controlled by algorithms.
- The job is perceived as temporary due to financial instability and lack of labor rights.
- Social interactions among couriers are limited, leading to feelings of isolation.
- Physical demands of the job contribute to health risks and exhaustion.
- Many couriers feel devalued and disrespected in their interactions with customers and restaurants.
Takeaway
Bicycle messengers feel like their own bosses but often have to follow strict rules set by algorithms, which can make their job stressful.
Methodology
Qualitative interviews with ten bicycle messengers analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the convenience and snowball sampling methods used for recruitment.
Limitations
The study focused only on male bicycle messengers and did not include other modes of transport or female couriers.
Participant Demographics
All participants were men, mostly aged between 20 and 40, with a mix of native and migrant backgrounds.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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