A new economy is flourishing inside the digital domain. The emerging phenomenon is intensely interlinked, it has a global reach, it is in favor of intangible things, such as ideas and information, and still answers to many different names. Whether it’s called the Shared Economy, Gig Economy or Platform Economy, this new economy encompasses the different transactions made possible by the ecosystem of digital platforms. The purpose of this dissertation is to explore the freelancing work structure, within the creative sector, and this particular context. Furthermore, it aims to understand the labour dynamics among freelancers and the platforms they use to mediate their work, and the frameworks they adopt to organize their routines and careers. Through an exploratory approach, the primary data was collected using scripted qualitative interviews with mostly open-ended questions, while the secondary data was obtained by consulting the existing literature. Even though their work allows for flexible hours, 100% of the interviewed freelancers confirmed needing a structured routine. The research helped identify three basic profiles for freelancers, within the creative sector. That effort revealed different spectrums of those professionals’ interests. Analyzing and categorizing the motivations behind their behaviours elucidated not only how they organize, but also why they do it in a particular manner. A single organizational solution to fit all freelancers’ needs was not found. The testimonies, each fitting one of the profiles, illustrated how freelancing promotes flexibility in such a way that it is possible to find a myriad of solutions, tailored for each individual problem. This dissertation also identified that the freelancing platforms have insufficient entry barriers to ensure their quality. This “openness” points to a space where multiple opportunities, suited for different levels of professionalism and compromise, can be found. Without any parameters, this practice could harm users, and platforms alike. When asked about what was lacking in the freelancing platforms structures, participants were effusive in mentioning the need for more efficient ways to filter quality clients. Most of these platforms, instead of nurturing a space where freelancers want to engage with, thus generating value for all parties involved, they rather become as inviting as possible (only) to clients, while capitalizing as much as they can on the dependency they cause to freelancers. The number of negative points is superior than their advantages, nevertheless freelancers remain satisfied with the platforms they use, mostly because of their efficiency in connecting with potential clients. In conclusion, even though there is space for improvements, most of the participants feel that yes, freelancing is a sustainable work regime in the long term.
Date of Award | 29 Nov 2021 |
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Original language | Portuguese |
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Awarding Institution | - Universidade Católica Portuguesa
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Supervisor | Luís Teixeira (Supervisor) & Caio Vassão (Co-Supervisor) |
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- Freelancing
- Upwork
- Toptal
- 99Designs
- Platform economy
- Gig economy
- Shared economy
- Outsourcing
- Creative work on-demand
- Organizational methods for freelancers
- Mestrado em Gestão de Indústrias Criativas
O trabalho freelancer no setor criativo através de plataformas digitais
Augusto, C. E. A. (Student). 29 Nov 2021
Student thesis: Master's Thesis