CWN is an acronym that stands for "Contingent Worker Network". The term describes a group of independent or temporary workers who are engaged by an organization on an as-needed basis. Synonyms for CWN include "contract workers", "flexible workforce", "gig economy", "freelancers", "temporary staff", "consultants", "project-based employees", "self-employed workers" and "independent contractors". These terms all refer to individuals who work for an organization without being employed on a permanent basis. The rise of the CWN has shifted the way businesses operate and has become an important part of modern business models.