Teleworking and the Challenges of Digitalization: The Role of Human Resource Managers

Abstract

Teleworking, which in most cases means “working from home,” has led many researchers to claim that workplace flexibility is bound to become the “new normal.” Whereas such scholars have adequately stressed the benefits of the digitalization of work processes, its more controversial aspects have often been downplayed. Building on a thorough examination of recent literature, this study analyzes the relationship between digitalization and ethics from a theoretical perspective. After analyzing the potential conflicts between teleworking and corporate social responsibility, a new theoretical model will be introduced to assist human resource managers in the implementation of genuinely sustainable practices. In this regard, this work aims to propose a decision tree as a tool for HR managers and test it with a hypothetical case study, thus including the required indicators and assessing the potential developments of this decision-making strategy through an explanation of its implications. The conclusion is that the ethical viability of teleworking is not necessarily a beneficial solution per se, but rather a trade-off between different sustainable practices.