Guðbjörg Linda Rafnsdóttir and Margrét Lilja Guðmundsdóttir.

The influence of information technology on the work environment and the
protection of individuals.

The aim of this research is to analyse the extent of Electronic Performance
Monitoring (EPM)
and its influence on work organisation, the working environment and the well
being of the
workers. The managers' main purpose in using EPM will be analysed, as well
as how
the EPM technology is used. Its influence on the working environment, how
the collected
information is used, and what influence EPM has on the well being and the
status of the
workers will be analysed.

The research methods will be both qualitative and quantitative. The
managers' purpose
in using EPM will be analysed through surveys and interviews. By the same
methods,
data regarding the influence of the surveillance on the working organisation
and the well
being of the workers will be collected and analysed.
Because of advancements in information technology, it has become more common
that
managers use this technology for electronic surveillance amongst employees.
This especially
applies to surveillance by means of electronic monitoring, video recording,
and monitoring
e-mails and phone calls in the workplace.
In this way, information technology has influenced the relations between
managers and
employees, and made it easier to follow up on and measure the output and
performance
of the employees. Information technology has increased the efficiency and
accuracy in
management, and made the work of the employees safer.

Rapid development in this respect appears in a variety of occupations. An
overview
of this development seems to be lacking, as well as where the line regarding
ethical questions
should be drawn. In light of this new technology, there is an urgent need
for discussion
and policy making in the field of personal privacy in the working place.
The results of this research will contribute to such policy making.