Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/236542 
Year of Publication: 
2021
Series/Report no.: 
JRC Working Papers Series on Labour, Education and Technology No. 2021/10
Publisher: 
European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Seville
Abstract: 
This paper analyses how the introduction of advanced digital technologies affected the business model, work organisation, and job quality in selected establishments in Spain. The focus is on two technologies: 3D printing and Internet of things (IoT). Two case studies were carried out in Spain: TTI-Algeciras (stowage and logistic port container terminal) and Airbus (manufacture of aerospace and defence equipment). A qualitative research methodology through semi-structured interviews was implemented. The results show the selected digital technologies has a positive impact on the busi-ness model of TTI-Algeciras and Airbus, either by increasing efficiency and competitiveness, or by improving work organisation. The main findings in terms of job quality, are: improvements in the physical environment resulting from a reduction in occupational hazards: the upskilling of the work-force, due to the need of new technical skills; the increase in worker responsibility and autonomy to the detriment of routine tasks; and, on the negative side, an intensification of work that is now de-termined by the technology. The analysis also shows the importance of communication and new ways of organising teamwork as a crucial factor for the successful introduction of digital technolo-gies in both companies. Finally, the consequences of the restrictive measures against Covid-19 during 2020 have favoured an acceleration of technological change in the workplace.
Subjects: 
3D printing
Internet of Things (IoT)
digitisation
digitalisation
digital technologies
future of work
Creative Commons License: 
cc-by Logo
Document Type: 
Working Paper

Files in This Item:
File
Size





Items in EconStor are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.