Dimensions of Work
Power structures
The centre of the framework consists of social roles as well as power and hierarchy structures, which result from the other six dimensions. This dimension takes on a special role – it develops through work structures and, in turn, leads to these structures being maintained, reproduced, or transformed.
Reward
Conditions
Power, work, and social roles
Chance for action, probability of success
Work influences economic, political, ideological, and military power. Power structures, hierarchies, and social roles are expressed by social relations, resources, conflicts, inequality, expectations, and sanctions.
Recognition of (and for) work determines how much prestige or status one has within a social group. In turn, power structures determine which activities are recognised as (valuable) work at all.
Reward structures of work are a major determinant of social structures by shaping the allocation of resources. In turn, power structures and their stability determine whether work is rewarded, and how high the reward is.
Working conditions shape the distribution of power through its influence on the distribution of resources like health, energy, time, or information. In turn, power structures reproduce working conditions by organising who can make their voice heard.
The aesthetic of work influences who is considered competent in which areas, and, thus, is granted participation. In turn, power structures reproduce the stereotypes, expectations and resources connotated to work activities.
The character of work has significant influence on one's relations with others. In turn, power structures decide what people work on.
The scope of work determines one's capacities to initiate changes in power positions and hierarchies. In turn, power structures determine who engages in which types of work to which extent.
Interactive Example
Click the figure to explore how each dimension produces power structures - and how power structures, in turn, reproduce work quality.
Rolf Schmucker, German Trade Union Confederation (DGB)
In Conversation
Worker participation
Rolf Schmucker explains why it is important to include working people in research processes:
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
