Solutions to increase freelancers’ commitment in the international online gig economy

Abstract

The online gig economy is built on linking clients with independent workers for short-term, task-based projects or services. It is distinguished by the use of digital platforms to connect clients with freelancers, contractors, or other independent employees who can execute various activities such as data collecting, transcribing, testing, content development, etc. The online gig economy dates back to the early days of the Internet when the first online marketplaces and job boards appeared. Websites such as Elance and Guru were developed in the late 1990s, providing a forum for freelancers to find employment and corporations to locate talent for short-term projects. In the early 2000s, websites such as Craigslist and TaskRabbit emerged, allowing individuals to provide their services to nearby consumers on a one-time basis.

These platforms transformed the way people work and do business by providing a more flexible and easy way for workers to obtain short-term labor and customers to access a variety of services. Since then, the gig economy has expanded intensely, with new platforms emerging in various industries. Freelancers in the online gig economy face a variety of challenges; some of the most significant ones include finding a steady stream of work and competition, which results in the freelancers' noncommitment.

This study will present a general overview of the online gig economy business ecosystem, including influencing variables, stakeholders, and environmental factors. Based on this information, a set of practical solutions will be developed and evaluated to assist both freelancers and enterprises. The thesis finishes with practical application suggestions for increasing freelancers' commitment in the international online gig economy.