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In our increasingly globalized society, multinational brands are searching for new and effective ways to reach workers spread across their supply chains. Labor Link is a worker-centric platform that enables direct worker engagement by leveraging the rapid spread of mobile phones in the developing world. The platform has two core components:

1) Information Push to Workers

Labor Link utilizes short message service (SMS) and interactive voice response (IVR) to deliver relevant/actionable information to base-of-the-pyramid workers. Information varies based on context, but typically includes messages about government services, as well as labor rights, education, training and financial security. Brief messages are “blasted” to workers using SMS. For longer, more in-depth messages, IVR is employed. In each case, workers receive information directly to their mobile phones at no cost.

2) Information Collection and Visualization for Brands/Clients

Labor Link also uses IVR to collect information from workers. A brand joins the program and introduces Labor Link to their suppliers. Workers receive marketing materials about Labor Link with directions on how to participate. Mobile surveys are then administered to participants about job satisfaction, working and living conditions, compensation and other topics using voice-recordings. All answers are anonymous and saved in a cloud-based database. Data is then analyzed and returned to the brand in a customized report.

Both components provide stakeholders with a true value proposition. For workers, they enjoy increased access to relevant information they can use to challenge the status quo and upgrade their working conditions. They also are provided a channel through which they can share thoughts and opinions to distant buyers. Brands benefit from improved oversight and a means to both identify success stories and action areas within their supply-chain.

Our Goals

Download the 2011 Pilot Case Study

A successful pilot of Labor Link was completed in 2010 with 100 Peruvian workers. In September 2010, GWS staff participated in Santa Clara University’s Global Social Benefit Incubator where a business plan and business model were established to generate program income. In 2011, Labor Link was expanded to 1,000 workers in multiple locations across Peru. Further roll-out is scheduled for India and Mexico in 2012 with our partners.

Our long-term goal is to reach and enhance the economic livelihoods of 100,000+ workers and their families by 2015. We also hope to be financial self-sufficient at that time so we can operate and grow with reduced levels of philanthropic funding.