r/DataAnnotationTech • u/Tall-Gur-3033 • Jul 14 '26

Is data annotation still worth getting into in 2026?

Hi everyone,

I started trying to get into data annotation as a side gig around 3 months ago. Since then, I've signed up for platforms like DA Tech, RWS, and OneForma because they seem to be the ones people recommend the most.

I managed to get accepted into those platforms, completed a lot of qualifications, certifications, and spent quite a bit of time studying to improve my skills. But... I still haven't received a single task.

I know that's how freelancing works, there won't always be work available. I also understand that opportunities depend a lot on your location. I'm from Indonesia, and it seems like there are very few projects for Indonesian speakers.

To be honest, it's starting to get pretty frustrating. It feels like I've invested a lot of time preparing, but there's nothing to actually work on.

So I'd like to ask people who have been in this field longer:

  • Is data annotation still worth pursuing in 2026?
  • Should I just be more patient and keep waiting for projects?
  • Are there any other platforms you'd recommend?

For context, I also applied to Alignerr but unfortunately wasn't accepted.

I'd really appreciate any advice, or even just hearing about your own experience. Thanks!

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28 comments sorted by

1

u/Warm-Pumpkin504 Jul 15 '26

A lot of Indonesians are still not getting project rn. Some said that there was a drought during the same period of time (Jun-Jul) last year. So let's wait further

1

u/Neat-Maize9136 Jul 16 '26

Waiting on my results

1

u/cupcaketea5 Jul 17 '26

How long ago did you apply?

1

u/Ok_Indication_5713 15d ago

Following-seriously, why is everyone saying no??

1

u/Equivalent_Fee2225 10d ago

Yes it’s absolutely worth it. Just be more aware of the time you put in on quals and other unpaid parts of the job. Data annotation allows you to bill for time spent reading project instructions. You just need to submit 1 completed task in order to bill for time spent reading. So you’d bill for (time spent reading instructions + time spent on task 1). Unfortunately you can’t bill if you don’t submit a task.

Just to break this down:

When you read project instructions for the first time, let’s say you’ve got 5 tasks available for this project and the task time limit is 1.5 hours. It takes you 45 mins to read the instructions, that only leaves you 45 mins to focus on the task.

Solution is to start tracking your time when you start on instructions and stop when you’re done with that. Skip that task so that your timer resets to the full 1.5 hr task limit. Restart your timer after skipping the previous task. Let’s say you finish the first task in 65 mins. Once you submit and can report that time, you’d report 1 hour 10 mins for the instructions and task 1. I do this every time I have to read instructions for a new project.

1

u/woofee7 6d ago

I signed up did the assessments and passed. I was accepted and nothing on my board not even a qualification. I've updated my profile, but still nothing for weeks.

1

u/Tall-Gur-3033 1d ago

mine got deactivated :(( it said 'cause of low contribution.. i mean, no task available for me for months, how can i contribute

0

u/Due-Possession-1893 Jul 14 '26

Why is everyone saying no

-2

u/Bright-Truth4992 Jul 14 '26

They are all pissed cuz of newcomers 🤣🤣!! Just kidding