Evolution of the Professional Contingent Workforce

The market for professional contingent workers (PCW) has evolved into one of the fastest growing segments of the temporary labor force in the so-called "new economy." To better understand the evolution and success of the professional contingent market, I utilize a new paradigm. Three dimensions are added: First, supply-side characteristics among PCW are analyzed in aggregation. Second, the role and market contribution of intermediaries, such as staffing groups, are stipulated. Finally, interaction among the parties--PCW, staffing groups, and client firms--is viewed as symbiotic. Within the structural framework established by client firms and staffing groups, PCW create value and scale economies for all parties. Empirical results confirm the hypothesis that PCW professionalism assures the vitality of the market.