Data & Databases
Ghost work
Human labor that supports apparently automated services while remaining largely invisible to users.
Example
Workers label examples or review difficult cases behind an AI service.
Why people use it
It makes hidden human effort visible in discussions about automation.
What you'll hear
“Who is doing the work behind the automated screen?”
What this means for you
Ask how supporting labor is organized and represented.
Can you control it?
No
No direct control. This describes a wider issue, concept or result rather than something you can simply switch on or off in a tool.
Common questions
- Does an automated interface mean no people are involved?
- No. Human work can be essential behind the scenes.
- Can users mistake human help for AI ability?
- Yes. An interface may hide the people reviewing difficult cases or preparing information.
- Is this work always temporary?
- No. Some services continue to rely on human support as part of everyday operation.