The Future of Online Labor Markets

This research project examines online labor markets from an integrated Information Systems and Economics perspective, focusing on how digital platforms structure transactions, shape incentives, and influence market outcomes. Online labor platforms (e.g., Upwork, Fiverr) reduce search and matching frictions, enable reputation systems, and algorithmically mediate interactions between workers and clients. The project analyzes how platform design choices such as ranking algorithms, rating systems, pricing mechanisms, and governance rules, affect competition, wage dispersion, productivity, and worker career trajectories.

AI Tools and Autonomous Agents

A central component of the project tackles the question of how AI tools and autonomous agents affect online labor markets. As generative AI, recommendation systems, and automated bidding agents become more prevalent, they may augment worker productivity, substitute for certain tasks, or intensify competition. The research examines whether AI adoption changes skill premiums, entry barriers, task composition, and overall market structure. By combining platform data analysis, field experiments, and structural modeling, the project aims to generate insights for platform design, policy regulation, and the future of digital work.