A new indicator of technical complexity at work

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to conceptualise and measure the technical aspects of the division of labour (DoL) with a new survey indicator of technical complexity (ITC) at work.

Design/methodology/approach

Two technical criteria skills and functions are used to distinguish positions in the DoL and to cluster and rank them into a 28‐category ordinal survey ITC. The indicator's construct‐validity is tested by assessing the correlation between these criteria and occupational activities' levels of substantive and organizational complexity, as uncovered by categorical principal component analysis. Criterion‐validity is assessed by testing the indicator's ability to predict occupational prestige, absolutely and relatively to other indicators.

Findings

The indicator shows high levels of construct and criterion‐validity.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to a better understanding and measurement of technical constraints in the DoL, facilitating a future evaluation of their impact on class inequalities.

Citation

Rodríguez Menés, J. (2008), "A new indicator of technical complexity at work", International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, Vol. 28 No. 5/6, pp. 155-178. https://doi.org/10.1108/01443330810881222