The "Big 4" accounting and consulting firm EY recently announced GigNow, an advanced technology platform that sources and matches qualified independent workers with projects at EY.
Key quote on why EY developed GigNow:
“The trend of contract professionals demanding more flexibility to support new types of career paths is upending the way we find and engage talent. At EY, we see this as a strategic imperative to transform the way we attract the best talent for short-term assignments, especially during bursts of business activity. The launch of GigNow enables us to systematically engage the right talent, for the right opportunities at the right time.”
Key quote on GigNow's impact on contractor hiring at EY:
"With GigNow, the number of people working as contractors on short-term assignments at EY is expected to grow significantly over the next several years ..."
GigNow is similar to PWC's talent exchange and other private talent clouds. Corporations of all kinds are developing these platforms for the same reason as EY - to attract the best talent.
EY also announced EY Badges, a certification program that will allow EY employees "the ability to digital credentials in skills that differentiate them in the market, such as data analytics, AI, data transformation and information strategy."
Key quote on earning Badges:
Badges will be earned based on the same standards around the world – through world-class learning, fulfilling required experiences and making a contribution to the broader community, such as coaching colleagues, presenting to clients or publishing an article that educates others about the acquired skill. There will also be four levels of badge distinction (bronze, silver, gold and platinum), with defined criteria to be met in learning, experiences and contribution to earn each badge.
It's not clear from the announcement whether or not GigNow contractors will be able to earn Badges. But given the other announcements, it's likely this will happen.
And being certified by a firm like EY has obvious advantages to independent workers.
EY's announcement is yet another example of corporations moving to embrace the gig economy. And as we recently pointed out, gig economy companies are pivoting to serve this large and growing market.
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