Piecework: definition, requirements, examples of professions
The term piecework is closely linked to the form of payment. Employees who work in piecework are paid not according to the hours worked, but according to their work performance. The amount of their wages depends on the number of pieces. This means that the employees produce large quantities in the shortest possible time. Here you can find out what piece work and piece wages mean. In addition, we explain the advantages and disadvantages and give examples of typical piecework jobs …
When do we speak of piecework?
In common parlance, many piece work combine with work on the assembly line: the employees of a company complete certain work processes within a short period of time. When people work in piecework, the activities are automated and every move is perfect. According to the definition in the Gabler Wirtschaftslexikon, piecework is a gainful activity, the wage of which is based on the amount of work done — regardless of the time required. However, since the number of items produced and the wage rate agreed per item form the basis of the remuneration, extrinsic motivation plays a role: the employees have a high incentive to produce as much as possible in a given time.
Examples of professions
