How algorithms wreaked havoc with these workers' schedules and cut their pay
Yves Valerus, a Haitian Creole-English interpreter, saw her hours and pay drop significantly after LanguageLine implemented new scheduling software amid declining demand. The unpredictable schedule and intensified workload have led her and other workers to pursue unionization with the Communications Workers of America. Workers across industries are raising concerns about how algorithmic management tools, including AI and scheduling software, are eroding job stability and well-being.
- ▪Yves Valerus's pay decreased by nearly 20% after her hours were cut and fragmented due to new scheduling software at LanguageLine.
- ▪LanguageLine interpreters now have only 15 seconds between calls, reducing downtime and increasing job intensity.
- ▪Valerus and colleagues are attempting to unionize with the Communications Workers of America to push back against algorithmic scheduling and potential AI replacement.
- ▪LanguageLine's parent company, Teleperformance, previously settled allegations of surveilling remote workers.
- ▪Workers in other industries, such as hotel cleaners, are also resisting algorithmic management tools that intensify labor demands.
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Technology How algorithms wreaked havoc with these workers' schedules and cut their pay May 3, 20265:00 AM ET By Huo Jingnan Interpreter Yves Valerus speaks at a LanguageLine press conference in front of New York City Hall in April. LanguageLine interpreters have had their hours drastically cut after the company said it experienced fewer customer demand and started using new scheduling software. Some workers are trying to organize a union. Huo Jingnan/NPR hide caption toggle caption Huo Jingnan/NPR For a year and a half, Yves Valerus was working a stable, full time job with a regular weekly schedule, a set hourly rate and benefits. The Haitian Creole-English interpreter helps people bridge language barriers over the phone during people's hospital visits, court proceedings and the like.
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