This post follows on my previous post on the gig economy. The issue is that spaces in-between, the jobs that are found outside the system, the local environment, the ‘atmosphere’ are now available online. However, the increasing intrusion of services for music placement and music lessons, for example, showcase the limitations and the possible shutdown of local organic economic and social transactions.
One possibility that (suggested by some commenters) is that blockchain technology can provide a means to circumvent this. I absolutely agree. For any service transaction, especially one that requires face-to-face interaction, a certain degree of vetting is required, especially in order to establish a track record of reliability. Uber, besides a number of regrettable instances, provides a decent service at a decent price. If this model could be localized, and at the same time provide incentives based on reliability, then the workers, who are really doing the work, would make more money. The admins would also receive a cut, and the block chain payment options provide the fundaments for a new economic system.
The same thing goes for selling things, like craigs list, or any number of goods and services. For example, if you specialized in dry wall, but know a good painter, then if your recommendation created a success service contract, then you would receive a bonus. The idea would be to create local networks that could interlock with other regions, and then perhaps nationally and intentionally. The support for these endeavors could come in the form of shares, based on crypto-currency as well as admin/support/talent search functions performed.
On the other hand, Air BnB, Uber, etc. do not assume any risks. That is why they are so profitable. If a collective insurance bank were provided, this would offer a more secure model, and the potential for the payment of individuals to increase as they increased their ratings and proved their reliability. Generally, I believe that people will work harder when they have a direct connection to the business, and are being recognized for their hard work.
I appreciate any thoughts.