The gig economy is a growing sector, with more and more people turning to freelancing and short-term contracts to earn a living. While traditional marketplaces often have high fees and limited opportunities for workers, decentralised marketplaces offer more transparent and equitable platforms for the gig economy. They use blockchain technology to make it happen. In this article, we will delve into the concept of the gig economy and why gig workers may choose decentralised marketplaces over traditional markets. We shall also take a look at the challenges decentralised markets pose for the gig economy.Â
What is the gig economy?
The gig economy is a way of working where people do short-term or freelance jobs instead of working for a company full-time. They often use websites like Uber, TaskRabbit and Fiverr to find work. The gig economy has grown quickly because of new technology and people’s changing ideas about work.
The gig economy also lets people do work they love. Gig workers can choose their own jobs and clients, so they can match their work with their personal goals and dreams. This makes them happier and more satisfied with their work. That’s why the gig economy keeps getting bigger and bigger!
limitations of traditional marketplaces for the gig economy
While traditional marketplaces have enabled many individuals to find work in the gig economy, they also have their limitations.
For one, these marketplaces often have high fees, which can eat into workers’ earnings. Additionally, these platforms are typically centralised. This means that they are controlled by a single company. This can lead to issues such as biassed decision-making, lack of transparency, and limited opportunities for workers.
Another limitation of traditional marketplaces is that they often rely on a ratings system to evaluate worker performance. While this can be effective in some cases, it can also be problematic. For example, workers may receive low ratings due to factors outside of their control, such as a customer’s mood or preferences. This can make it difficult for workers to find future work and can limit their earning potential.
Furthermore, traditional marketplaces can also be prone to fraud and abuse. Some workers fall victim to scams or receive unfair treatment from clients. This can result in a loss of income and can be a significant source of stress and frustration for workers.
Why choose decentralised markets for the gig workers?
On the other hand, decentralised marketplaces offer a variety of benefits for gig workers. Some of the benefits include the following:
Increased flexibility: Decentralised marketplaces enable gig workers to take control of their schedules. This allows them to work when and where they want. This increased flexibility can help workers achieve a better work-life balance.
Increased earnings: They also often offer better pay rates than traditional gig economy platforms. They do not charge high commissions or fees. Workers can also benefit from the absence of intermediaries. This may lead to a more direct and profitable connection with customers.
Improved security: Blockchain technology provides decentralised markets with a secure and transparent way to conduct transactions. This can help gig workers avoid the risk of fraudulent transactions or non-payment.
Better reputation management: Decentralised marketplaces often use a reputation system to verify the identity of both buyers and sellers. This can help gig workers build a positive reputation and establish trust with customers. This also allows for more work opportunities.Â
Challenges of decentralised marketplaces for gig workers
While decentralised marketplaces offer many benefits to gig workers, there are also several challenges that need to be considered. Firstly, the availability of decentralised marketplaces in certain industries is limited. This may result in fewer work opportunities available for gig workers. As a result, it becomes difficult for them to earn or sustain themselves in the long run.Â
Secondly, as decentralised marketplaces are built on blockchain marketplace technology, a certain level of technical knowledge is required to navigate. Not all gig workers may be familiar with this technology. This may prevent some gig workers from entering and taking advantage of these marketplaces. This also allows for limited opportunities for growth and expansion.
Thirdly, the increasing popularity of decentralised marketplaces has led to fierce competition among gig workers. They must compete with skilled professionals from around the world to secure work opportunities. This competition can be challenging, and gig workers must constantly upgrade their skills and knowledge to stay ahead of the curve.
Do decentralised markets have the potential to revolutionise the gig economy?
The gig economy is currently dominated by traditional marketplaces. However, decentralised markets have the potential to revolutionise the gig economy. Decentralised marketplaces offer a more transparent, fairer and more efficient system for gig workers. By using blockchain technology, decentralised marketplaces can eliminate intermediaries, reduce fees and provide better security to gig workers. This can lead to increased flexibility and earnings for gig workers.
However, there are also some challenges that need to be addressed. Decentralised markets require a certain level of technical knowledge to navigate. There is also fierce competition among gig workers. This can make it challenging for some to secure work opportunities. Nevertheless, if the challenges can be addressed, decentralised markets have the potential to transform the gig economy and provide a better way of working for gig workers.
