Software and privacy: revising Orwell

It is argued that employers frequently use computers as a surveillance device and a means to monitor almost every aspect of employee performance. Employers justify such conduct by asserting that this helps ensure job safety and workplace security, reduce costs and limit liability; and increase productivity, efficiency, and product quality. Taken too far, however, surveillance can make employees overstressed and anxious, ultimately hindering the employers' objectives. The use of impairment tests and computerized impairment tests are discussed. The privacy issues raised by computerized impairment tests are discussed.<<ETX>>