How digitalisation shapes job quality and social dialogue in Germany’s public services

This Research Paper presents the German case study of the European Commission-funded ‘DIGIQU@LPUB’ project examining the impact of digitalisation on job quality and social dialogue in public services in three sectors: electricity, public administration and healthcare. Digital transformation in these three sectors is ongoing, with noteworthy progress being made. However, in public administration and healthcare, expectations have yet to be fully met. In general, trade unions recognise the benefits of digitalisation. However, given the common good character of public services, they emphasise the need to safeguard both service quality and employee well-being. Striking the right balance between these two objectives is paramount.