In a positive turn of events, over 300 quality assurance workers at Microsoft’s ZeniMax Media subsidiary have reached a tentative contract agreement after nearly two years of negotiations. Reported in a statement on the Communication Workers of America website, the deal marks a significant milestone for Zenimax Media.
The tentative deal will set new standards with substantial wage increases, clear policies for worker crediting, and protection against arbitrary dismissals. The contract also includes guidelines for implementing artificial intelligence within the workplace, a growing concern for many in a multitude of industries worldwide.
Union representatives emphasized the broader implications, highlighting this landmark agreement as a potential new model for industry-wide change. This is especially prolific in an era where game companies have slashed staff, closed studios, and utilized new technologies to cut costs and increase profits.
QA tester Jessee Leese stated, “Our first contract is an invitation for video game professionals everywhere to take action,” underscoring the importance of video game professionals to collectively bargain to improve workplace conditions and worker protections.
Given the industry’s volatility and frequent exploitation of creative labor this agreement is a big step firward. It is currently still pending ratification, but a final vote is expected on or before June 20. Keep your eyes peeled for more information as the ratification vote looms.
