Artificial Intelligence and Digital Work: The Sociotechnical Reversal

Abstract

A well-designed information system (IS) in the classical view comprises two interrelated yet different subsystems; one that represents the technological dimension of work; and one that represents the social dimension. When these subsystems are heralded as equally important, they constitute a sociotechnical whole, producing economic outcomes such as profit and efficiency, plus humanistic outcomes, such as engagement and well-being. We see, increasingly, this classical view becoming obliviated. In this conceptual paper, we reflect upon the role of humans and technology in these changing work environments. While technical aspects from Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies are dominating the social side of work, we suggest a sociotechnical reversal to happen. Whereas this technosocial reality might be well motivated by advances in efficiency and productivity, the effects on well-being and engagement are less well understood. Consequently, we provide a set of theoretically derived principles to guide these changes in the digital workplace.