The perfect match

The app will match purpose-driven employers with like-minded freelancers
The app will match purpose-driven employers with like-minded freelancers

Researchers at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU), are working on a Tinder-style job-search app to help match freelancers with relevant businesses – with a slant towards the Common Good.

Funded by Innovate UK, researchers are working in collaboration with tech firm GoodBridge to help develop a machine-learning algorithm that matches purpose-driven employers with like-minded freelancers.

The algorithm will provide automated results with better matches, and a ranking of matches based on the given criteria and constraints. The developed algorithm will be tested commercially, enabling GoodBridge to develop a platform where matching is gamified, similar to a dating app where people receive matches in real-time.

GoodBridge is also committed to making the services accessible to vulnerable populations.

Dr Sajid Nazir, a Lecturer in the Department of Computing and project lead, said: “In 2018 there were 611,000 self-employed people in the UK who were considered disabled under the Equality Act.

“The algorithm will help combat exploitation within the gig economy through a mutually selective, values-based matching system that has not been applied to the freelance marketplace.

“A key differentiator from existing freelance platforms will be the ability to narrow search results based on proficiency in discussing complex socio-political factors. For example, if the freelancer is proficient in discussing homelessness, the algorithm could match them with Shelter Scotland. GoodBridge has potential to significantly impact how life-saving organisations disseminate crucial information to the public.”