Modelling eWork in Europe

Estimates, models and forecasts from the EMERGENCE project

Bates P, Huws U | Report 388 | Institute for Employment Studies | Jun 2002

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This report draws on the results of the EMERGENCE 18-country employer study and combines them with data from European labour force surveys to develop models of eWorking.

Four distinct types of 'individual' eWorkers are identified in the study: telehomeworkers, multilocational eWorkers, eLancers, and the eEnabled self-employed.

In addition to 'individual' eWorking, the report considers the determinants of collective arrangements based on ICT supported outsourcing or business delocation.

The EMERGENCE team has developed forecasts for the spread of each of these individual forms of eWork over the next decade. Based on current patterns, the overall the number of individual eWorkers in Europe is likely to triple, from its current levels of over ten million, to 27 million by 2010.