Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
professor, Department of Industrial Management, Faculty of Management and Economics, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
The present study aims to investigate the requirements for implementing remote work in organizations of the fifth industrial revolution era. Proper implementation of remote work depends on numerous factors, and addressing these factors can improve the process. To this end, the study employs the Soft Systems Methodology (SSM), which falls under the paradigm of soft operations research and qualitative studies, and is an expert-oriented approach. The opinions of nine experienced experts were collected through semi-structured interviews. The findings indicate that role conflict, reduced work-life balance, and stress caused by social isolation were identified as major issues. Additionally, infrastructural and technological limitations, such as lack of access to high-speed internet, weak cybersecurity, absence of smart tools for home and work environments, and the costs of smartification, negatively impacted the effectiveness of remote work systems. At the organizational level, the absence of clear policies, insufficient support structures, and lack of appropriate tools for employee performance evaluation were significant challenges. Based on the analysis of results and identification of challenges in remote work systems, a set of proposed changes for improving these systems is presented. For instance, at the individual level, one of the most important priorities is providing comprehensive digital training for employees. Additionally, creating counseling and support programs to reduce employee stress and isolation is highly important. At the organizational level, focusing on developing clear remote work policies, and at the technological level, strengthening IT infrastructure are key priorities.
Keywords
Main Subjects
)