New technologies, work, skills and identity : the case of maritime industry

• Main Author: Anand, Nippin
• Published: Cardiff University 2011
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.585173

This thesis is an empirical investigation of the implications of new technologies for work, skills and identity of workers in the maritime sector. The research question is focused on how employers and seafarers understand the changing nature of work and skills as a result of technological advances. This question will be answered within the wider context of global competition and the competitive reasons to promote new technologies in workplaces. The methods of data collection involve qualitative interviews with shipping company managers, training staff and seafarers. The findings reveal a significant mismatch between the competitive reasons to implement new technologies and its (un)intended consequences on the professional identity of workers. More specifically, the thesis highlights the tensions between management strategies aimed at profit maximization, cost control and safety concerns and the myriad perceptions of workers based on their understanding of the seafaring profession. The thesis provides a fresh perspective of the existing theories of technology in the context of global competition.