Changing governmentalities at a public employment service: Algorithmic activation, data contexts & the (in)dividual

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of algorithmic systems on the ontology and governmentality of jobseekers. Drawing on algorithmic governmentality theory, which conceptualizes algorithmic systems as forming the basis for a new form of governmentality devoid of interest in individuals, we examine the introduction of two novel algorithmic tools at the Belgian Public Employment Service VDAB. For years, their street-level bureaucrats have relied on their personal conversations with jobseekers to determine their self-reliance in the job searching process. Our analysis based on qualitative data highlights how their adoption of two novel algorithms in the form of a digital data dashboard has led to their reconfiguration to data validators instead of gatherers, while refocusing the organization to the creation of extensive data doubles, digital profiles of jobseekers upon which analysis is based. This ultimately leads the counsellors to employ a novel governmentality and ontologically reconfigures the jobseeker as dividuals of which the precise characteristics are no longer of import. This study advances the debate on how algorithms may alter bureaucratic services and even the target of these. Different from the extant literature, we argue that algorithmic technology enables subtle reconfigurations of work process, thus enabling a shift in governmentality.