Forced flexibility and remote working: Opportunities and challenges in the new normal
Author Identifier
Esme Franken
ORCID : 0000-0001-6869-3155
Tim Bentley
ORCID : 0000-0002-3859-548X
Azadeh Shafaei
ORCID : 0000-0003-3329-6293
Ben Farr-Wharton
ORCID : 0000-0001-9987-934X
Maryam Omari
ORCID : 0000-0002-1128-9423
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Title
Journal of Management & Organization
Publisher
Cambridge University Press
School
School of Business and Law / Centre for Work + Wellbeing
RAS ID
36877
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has seen a shift in remote work from being a discretionary flexible work policy to a mandatory requirement for several workplaces. This 'forced flexibility' has meant that organisations and their employees have had to adapt swiftly to new requirements and arrangements for how work is done. Working remotely, often at home in 'virtual workspaces', has become commonplace for many employees across Australia and globally. Drawing on findings from two qualitative phases of research in an Australian resources company, we use conservation of resources theory to explore the factors influencing processes related to wellbeing and productivity for employees working remotely in the COVID-19 environment. We identify challenges associated with working remotely, as well as important resources for wellbeing and productivity. Practical implications are also discussed.
DOI
10.1017/jmo.2021.40
Access Rights
subscription content
Comments
Franken, E., Bentley, T., Shafaei, A., Farr-Wharton, B., Onnis, L. A., & Omari, M. (2021). Forced flexibility and remote working: Opportunities and challenges in the new normal. Journal of Management & Organization, 27(6), 1131-1149. https://doi.org/10.1017/jmo.2021.40