Amazon develops new technology to detect workers slacking off

[petra]

Found this today.. seems like a pretty slippery slope to me. If I was working in a place like that, I'd either be leaving, or starting a revolt :P

Amazon develops new technology to detect workers slacking off (http://loanpride.com/amazon-develops-new-technology-can-detect-workers-slack-off-shift/)

Here's the quote that stood out most to me. They put it next to image #3 but I think it would be more appropriate next to Image #2


It’s true that the new technology will increase efficiency and minimize the risk of error, but critics fear that Amazon’s increasing efforts to control their employees might turn them into human robots.

[Carmody]

I think that this sort of workplace observation and control is going to have to be forced out of existence by government legislation.

[onevoice]

I think that this sort of workplace observation and control is going to have to be forced out of existence by government legislation.

When I worked for one of the biggest telecomm company in US, I knew that it had software that monitored people, especially in customer relationships department or sales that have repetitive processes. I've even heard of rumors that there were software installed in their computers that recorded every keystroke. Every time I logged in to the company provided laptop, we had to acknowledge a screen that essentially said that our actions were subject to monitoring at anytime. The local IT department clones standard company software image onto every new company laptops before we can officially use the laptop.

Also, I was aware that there is a special department in charge of spying/monitoring on any company computer at will. I'm sure they could connect remotely to any active company computer and monitor activity without the user being aware of it. I worked in a department where we built custom software to issue and manage company provided cell phones, and we often had to assist in providing any data that we gathered to that department when they suspected some unethical or illegal activities for employees who were terminated. I imagine this is standard practice in our industry.

I'm glad that I no longer work in that industry.

[Flash]

Found this today.. seems like a pretty slippery slope to me. If I was working in a place like that, I'd either be leaving, or starting a revolt :P

Amazon develops new technology to detect workers slacking off (http://loanpride.com/amazon-develops-new-technology-can-detect-workers-slack-off-shift/)

Here's the quote that stood out most to me. They put it next to image #3 but I think it would be more appropriate next to Image #2


It’s true that the new technology will increase efficiency and minimize the risk of error, but critics fear that Amazon’s increasing efforts to control their employees might turn them into human robots.


The main problem is that it will be used in third world sweatshops where they already work 12-14 hours shifts 7 days a week. More suicides in view.

Employers dictators have to realize that constant steady productivity is counterproductive. Employees have to have a bit a slack in order to be truly productive. They also have to have the feeling of controlling part of their work otherwise they slip into depression.

And it won't be used in government offices where it would be highly useful (their productivity is at an outstanding low, as well as their competency and ....) - kidding here. But where unions are strong, it will be opposed, for those employees who already have exceptional work conditions. The rest of us will just go more deeply in dire conditions. We are talking here of the equivalent of the coal mines of the 19th century. We are really backtracking.


The risk was highlighted through a fitness app called Strava where users can compare their fitness activity to others around them. The tech industry was horrified to discover that the app also allowed users to track military activity in undisclosed U.S. military bases and spy outposts in Syria and Iraq. This information, if in the wrong hands, could be catastrophic for terrorism prevention efforts in these countries.

They do not even mention workers welfare, just security against terrorism. WOW!


Max Crawford, an ex-employee said that after working in the warehouse for a year, he already felt like a robot due to the excessive repetition of the same task every day. Crawford said that workers were urged to process hundreds of orders per hour and the extreme pressure got to him one day and he collapsed at his work station.

If this is not 1984, what is????

We should boycott Amazon.

[Flash]

I think that this sort of workplace observation and control is going to have to be forced out of existence by government legislation.

When I worked for one of the biggest telecomm company in US, I knew that it had software that monitored people, especially in customer relationships department or sales that have repetitive processes. I've even heard of rumors that there were software installed in their computers that recorded every keystroke. Every time I logged in to the company provided laptop, we had to acknowledge a screen that essentially said that our actions were subject to monitoring at anytime. The local IT department clones standard company software image onto every new company laptops before we can officially use the laptop.

Also, I was aware that there is a special department in charge of spying/monitoring on any company computer at will. I'm sure they could connect remotely to any active company computer and monitor activity without the user being aware of it. I worked in a department where we built custom software to issue and manage company provided cell phones, and we often had to assist in providing any data that we gathered to that department when they suspected some unethical or illegal activities for employees who were terminated. I imagine this is standard practice in our industry.

I'm glad that I no longer work in that industry.

This is low key surveillance onevoice. It is much more advance than what you describe.

Yes, keytroke surveillance 24/7 in call centers mainly to be able to rewind a call and a chat converesation when there is problems with a customer.

Yes all the calls / keystrokes are taped/registered on a continuous basis.

Screens and web adresses are monitored to avoid loss time and mostly to avoid the humongus amount of employees going on porn sites otherwise.

All kind of tracking is done to avoid industrial theft as well.

You would not believe what employees can do that damages an enterprise, from porn sites to millions stolen to half the work time doing other things.

On the other hand, you would not believe either what a corporation can do to its employees (there is really no heart) and what bosses, low medium management, can do when they have a spree of micro management and / or an authoritarian attitude.

In any case, lets boycott Amazon. THey are using the same tech designed for electrical household surveilance from the Electricity providers on workers wrists. This is literally slavery.

[bonnyhut]

Yeah. Agreed. The irony is though ... I dont believe most governments are really working in the interests of their citizens. That type of technology & control would be their wet dream.

[Michelle Marie]

Found this today.. seems like a pretty slippery slope to me. If I was working in a place like that, I'd either be leaving, or starting a revolt :P

Amazon develops new technology to detect workers slacking off (http://loanpride.com/amazon-develops-new-technology-can-detect-workers-slack-off-shift/)

Here's the quote that stood out most to me. They put it next to image #3 but I think it would be more appropriate next to Image #2


It’s true that the new technology will increase efficiency and minimize the risk of error, but critics fear that Amazon’s increasing efforts to control their employees might turn them into human robots.


The main problem is that it will be used in third world sweatshops where they already work 12-14 hours shifts 7 days a week. More suicides in view.

Employers dictators have to realize that constant steady productivity is counterproductive. Employees have to have a bit a slack in order to be truly productive. They also have to have the feeling of controlling part of their work otherwise they slip into depression.

And it won't be used in government offices where it would be highly useful (their productivity is at an outstanding low, as well as their competency and ....) - kidding here. But where unions are strong, it will be opposed, for those employees who already have exceptional work conditions. The rest of us will just go more deeply in dire conditions. We are talking here of the equivalent of the coal mines of the 19th century. We are really backtracking.


The risk was highlighted through a fitness app called Strava where users can compare their fitness activity to others around them. The tech industry was horrified to discover that the app also allowed users to track military activity in undisclosed U.S. military bases and spy outposts in Syria and Iraq. This information, if in the wrong hands, could be catastrophic for terrorism prevention efforts in these countries.

They do not even mention workers welfare, just security against terrorism. WOW!


Max Crawford, an ex-employee said that after working in the warehouse for a year, he already felt like a robot due to the excessive repetition of the same task every day. Crawford said that workers were urged to process hundreds of orders per hour and the extreme pressure got to him one day and he collapsed at his work station.

If this is not 1984, what is????

We should boycott Amazon.

I am already boycotting Amazon.

One reason is to follow my intuition. Too corporate. I won't sell my books on Amazon. I do not make purchases on Amazon.

Another reason is to support our local economy.

My vote of non-participation is stronger than any legislation. Legislation is still being controlled by these corporations. (Infiltrated.) +Agree Bonnyhut!

When working for a small business, the owner suggested he may put monitoring software on our computers. I said I will quit if you do. He backed away from that idea. I later quit for some other ethical concerns.

MM :sun:

@Flash. -- the idea of this being part of the slavery mentality came directly to mind. We do have free will choice and use can reject slavery. Only people who allow it or buy into the deception will be slaves.

[Flash]

@Flash. -- the idea of this being part of the slavery mentality came directly to mind. We do have free will choice and use can reject slavery. Only people who allow it or buy into the deception will be slaves.

I do not agree with this sentence of your, people in starving situation with kids will do anything for them. THis is still more true in third world countries where starving is the norm.

[Michelle Marie]

@Flash. -- the idea of this being part of the slavery mentality came directly to mind. We do have free will choice and use can reject slavery. Only people who allow it or buy into the deception will be slaves.

I do not agree with this sentence of your, people in starving situation with kids will do anything for them. THis is still more true in third world countries where starving is the norm.

Okay, you're right. Let me rephrase that: I feel empowered to reject slavery and find ways to help others who have been enslaved. It is a great concern of mine which is why I made the thread about the prison slavery system.

http://projectavalon.net/forum4/showthread.php?100407-Judicial-System-corporate-profits-slave-labor-innocents-imprisoned-conflicts-of-interest-etc&p=1188360&viewfull=1#post1188360

Those without integrity use force to strip people of their freedoms. Victims of abuse include children, elderly, third world countries, those targeted by racism and lack of conformity, and more.

This is my reason for being...to help make changes. I am certain, though, that we can use our will power more generally than we give ourselves credit for. There is an evolution in consciousness that is occurring and is affecting the overall singular energy field of human consciousness. Currently, we are recognizing our abilities and putting them to use.

My intentions and visions do focus on helping people (including abused, enslaved, and deceived ones).

I would not be here if this work was already complete.

:heart: MM

[petra]

Employers dictators have to realize that constant steady productivity is counterproductive. Employees have to have a bit a slack in order to be truly productive. They also have to have the feeling of controlling part of their work otherwise they slip into depression.


Exactly! Generally speaking, rushing is just terrible. I've vowed to never rush again (unless someone's life is in danger of course). Attempting to force people to hurry like this I find kind of sickening actually!

I don't think boycotting Amazon would solve anything though. No matter how bad this gets... these people are choosing to work under such conditions. Maybe they like being treated like robots. I sure hope not though.

EDIT: I read more postings and changed my mind, I don't think I'll be using Amazon for anything unless they clean up their act.

[Valerie Villars]

Too bad they don't use this technology in the insurance industry. (I'm kidding; I am against anything of this sort-pure slavery. Like Amazon doesn't make enough already) I've never seen so much waste of time and money in my life. It was incredible. And then they legislate it and tell us we have to have it and we have to pay for it. What a neat trick.

Had bosses using company credit cards to visit strip clubs, running up huge bills. And workers, including me, sitting there day after day essentially doing nothing.

God I'm glad the elite blew my life up and I don't have to work or have a pot to piss in. It's very freeing.

[Daozen]

I try not to buy anything from those guys. iherb can ship medicine anywhere next day, or worldwide in 4-5 days for 6USD. No typo, six USD from US to Taiwan. I'm sure there are many alternatives for books too.

[ZoSo925]

These companies have already built Algorithm software programs that assigns employee work schedule bases on forecast results from previous year and other metrics.

[Flash]

These companies have already built Algorithm software programs that assigns employee work schedule bases on forecast results from previous year and other metrics.

well, for some high revenues potential sales, consumers are profiled within a 4 houses radius, with their gender, age, revenues, consumer's habits, credit cards, credit rating, name it. A 4 house radius, yes, you and 3 neigbours.

That is one side of the spectrum. On the other side, employees are profiled too, from their facebook account linked'in, twitter, plus gender, ager, productivity potential, habits, credit rating and personalities to match with the eventual costumer's personality.

Then you have all the algorithms on which are based on previous years sales, service, staffing, call/chat schedules, etc etc

You even now have this on google when you tried to book a restaurant: hours of occupancy, greatest wait time, abandon rate (people going away), also abandon rate of web research etc etc.

It is as advance officially, in the open, as anyone can imagine on conspiracy forums.

These are not conspiracies, they are in the open, a regular way of doing, as anyone working in sales or managing a call center would tell you.

Everything you get with your smartphone is available in businesses and much much more.

This is not NSA, this is the usual way of doing business with clients and consumers.

And of checking on a workforce. No wonder why the rate of depression is so high in call centers.

[ZoSo925]

Those call centers are slave labor sweat shops but mental torture. They are even specifically putting those call centers in states that is not in favor for the employee and those companies have state laws in their favor.

Those pig bastards even force employees to start their job early and log into different software programs... it's all illegal. Anyone working at these types of jobs, bring a tape recorder and document everything. What the major illegal thing these Call Centers do and Contractor Agencies do is force employees to log into computer systems and terminal software that is "Out Of State". The Internet Domain of all these databases and email systems are hosted on are in different U.S. State; so once you type anything on the computer to log in - you should be paid and there are always tons of Class Actions Lawsuits over that.

That's really scary, the way things are heading I just see Robot garbage trucks picking up garbage in the future. The other year I saw an article how robots will determine court cases and settlements. The news claimed they had it 84% accuracy; but give it time for them to tweak and fix things out.

[Caliban]

Amazon is a fu*ked up company, let's face it. So why do I keep buying there? 'Cause it's easy and comes right to my door. Jeez, I sound like a bloody sheep.

Do we really need to feed this guy more money? So he can treat his employees like s**t? In Ohio (?) a large chunk of his employees need to collect food stamps. And he's got more money than any one - - any many thousands of ones - could ever spend in a thousand years.

Why do we work for companies like these? You know, the worst thing that happened to us in the country was the destruction of the union movement. From inside and outside. Unions did so much good for workers in this country. Without them we might still have 14 hour days and child laborers. Why do you think it's called Union Square in NY?

We need to get together again.

[ZoSo925]

It's really disturbing and seems like there is no turning back. Today is not 30 years ago. The family is not all home together at 5pm eating dinner, nobody really eats a home cooked breakfast anymore. Nobody is to plan an education with a long-term working career anymore. People are lucky if they can hold the same job or position longer than 3 to 5 years.

[Bassplayer1]

I remember in my last job, the embarrassment of starting to cry (and I was 39 at the time lol!) in front of my boss and colleagues when he said that we all had to do a 'time and motion study' each - you know, what time we switched our computers on, how many times a day we went to the toilet and how long for etc. I wasn't crying because I was scared, but because it felt disrespectful and demeaning. We were being monitored and treated as children and it horrified me how so many people's lives are suffocated by this power crap. How many people are never allowed to fully blossom into their full potential.

[Valerie Villars]

I remember in my last job, the embarrassment of starting to cry (and I was 39 at the time lol!) in front of my boss and colleagues when he said that we all had to do a 'time and motion study' each - you know, what time we switched our computers on, how many times a day we went to the toilet and how long for etc. I wasn't crying because I was scared, but because it felt disrespectful and demeaning. We were being monitored and treated as children and it horrified me how so many people's lives are suffocated by this power crap. How many people are never allowed to fully blossom into their full potential.

Oh my gosh. You are me, except your name is different! That is precisely what horrifies me about most jobs. "You pee too much". "Oh yeah, and your hair is ugly" I mean, what the ****?

[sigma6]

I think that this sort of workplace observation and control is going to have to be forced out of existence by government legislation.

When I worked for one of the biggest telecomm company in US, I knew that it had software that monitored people, especially in customer relationships department or sales that have repetitive processes. I've even heard of rumors that there were software installed in their computers that recorded every keystroke. Every time I logged in to the company provided laptop, we had to acknowledge a screen that essentially said that our actions were subject to monitoring at anytime. The local IT department clones standard company software image onto every new company laptops before we can officially use the laptop.

Also, I was aware that there is a special department in charge of spying/monitoring on any company computer at will. I'm sure they could connect remotely to any active company computer and monitor activity without the user being aware of it. I worked in a department where we built custom software to issue and manage company provided cell phones, and we often had to assist in providing any data that we gathered to that department when they suspected some unethical or illegal activities for employees who were terminated. I imagine this is standard practice in our industry.

I'm glad that I no longer work in that industry.

Customer service can be brutal, than again it is the most powerful learning experience and skill to succeed in business, commerce or the courts... one should treat all communication like every word is being recorded, all the time (I think in some profound way, it might actually be the case...) i.e. if you are going to think it, speak it or do it, than stand behind it... or don't go there at all...

[sigma6]

Amazon is a fu*ked up company, let's face it. So why do I keep buying there? 'Cause it's easy and comes right to my door. Jeez, I sound like a bloody sheep.

Do we really need to feed this guy more money? So he can treat his employees like s**t? In Ohio (?) a large chunk of his employees need to collect food stamps. And he's got more money than any one - - any many thousands of ones - could ever spend in a thousand years.

Why do we work for companies like these? You know, the worst thing that happened to us in the country was the destruction of the union movement. From inside and outside. Unions did so much good for workers in this country. Without them we might still have 14 hour days and child laborers. Why do you think it's called Union Square in NY?

We need to get together again.

It's turning into another Google monster... a monopoly in many ways... but you are right... he is providing a service like no one else has ever achieved (look what happened to Sears... I saw that coming, even predicted it based on my own customer experience...) in any event... he knows he is ahead of the competition in the internet technology sector and it looks he intends to keep it that way... and why he is exploiting it to the max... especially with Alibaba gearing up... sometime in the future they will be breathing down his neck (which will be good for competition!)