Dimensions of Work
Character
The character of work includes the degree of meaningfulness as well as the actual meaning of a work activity. Contrary to ‘conditions’ under which work takes place, this dimension refers to the content of work. The value or the product of work, what it contributes to other people’s wellbeing, and how work engages with resources are part of its character.
Recognition
Aesthetic
(Thomas, Panel 1)
"When you work under perfect conditions but you think that all you produce is crap – nothing that advances humankind or the planet in any way, shape, or form – then that’s no good work."
(Peter, Panel 1)
"I think at some point I would always quit doing things that don’t have any meaning."
(Vera, Panel 2)
"Work is prayer to me."
(Lisa, Panel 2)
"Work is also where you feel needed and where you fulfil a purpose."
(Irene, Panel 2)
"If I can no longer work, if I’m not needed by anyone, there is no wellbeing to me."
Interactive Example
Drag your cursor across the slides to hear what research participants have to say about meaningfulness of work
Meaning and Meaningfulness
Making a contribution
Many people care not only how they work but what they work. They want to contribute to their community – whether through employment or their unpaid work. Especially the absence of work, for example due to an illness, tends to increase awareness of the need for a meaningful and worthwhile activity.
Oliver Suchy, German Trade Union Confederation (DGB)
In Conversation
Work, wellbeing, participation
Oliver Suchy explains how people find meaning in their work:
Understanding work quality
Dimensions of Work
Research shows that not just the surrounding conditions matter when evaluating whether people experience higher or lower quality of work. Here you can find information and illustrations on the diverse aspects that matter for work quality. We have further developed a tool based on this model which allows you to explore and reflect on your own work quality. This tool is suitable for both paid and unpaid activities – so you don’t have to be in employment to give it a try.
Conditions
Scope
Aesthetic
Character
Recognition
Reward
Power structures
