Smart working, states of connectivity and work identities in transition Bridging philosophy and management research
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.6093/2284-0184/7661Keywords:
Smart Working, Post-Humanity, Identity, Connectivity, ICTAbstract
The paper investigates the emerging smart working paradigm, by bridging a philosophical and managerial perspective. In detail, it discusses specific features of what constitutes a post-Fordism form of organizing work and the broader consequences of its adoption for the daily life of individuals. The rapid diffusion of smart working, boosted by the COVID-19 pandemic, is here considered as an experimental field of the spatial-temporal transformations produced by widespread computerization. Through reshaping our social environment, these processes urge to re-define also our roles and functions. Notwithstanding the many organizational advantages deriving from smart working adoption, the article puts on the foreground some critical aspects inherent to it. In detail, it highlights how this new organizational practice challenges professional identities. Identities are also nurtured by physical interactions within institutional places of relations. In the article, key philosophical concepts along with sociological and anthropological speculations form the theoretical basis that guides the interpretation of empirical management research on the topic. This research shows that as smart workers are deprived from institutional workplaces, they witness a number of tensions that can be dangerous for their work-life balance. In the new context, in particular, they strongly feel the need to assert their identity by exaggerating the level of connectivity. To them, a state of perpetual connectivity is needed for their status to be recognized. However, it also creates behavioural traps. Detrimental outcomes can be produced for individuals and their organizations. Such dynamics urge a responsible approach to technology use that is inspired by criteria of measurement, sustainability and reasonableness. In this direction, the concepts of “necessary connectivity” and “digital well-being” are particularly valuable.
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