Evaluating progress toward achieving the quality of employment and decent work: The development of the model

The present paper examines factors influencing the creation of a supportive and dignified work environment and evaluates progress towards decent work and quality employment. The following questions are addressed 1) What external factors are prerequisites for creating conditions for decent work and quality employment in the company? 2) What management practices and models encourage the creation of decent working conditions at the organizational level? 3)How does a decent work environment influence the company's sustainable development and employees' well-being? Data were collected from Scopus and Web of Science with VOSviewer for bibliometric and thematic analysis. Triangulation was carried out to integrate all obtained results and develop a conceptual model for evaluating progress toward achieving decent work and quality employment. The proposed model reflects preconditions, including ethical values, gender equality, open innovation models, and educational alignment. Key drivers such as practices fostering an ethical environment, shared decision-making, social security and protection, labor standards, and autonomy at work are highlighted. Job satisfaction, well-being, and quality of life were identified as consequences of decent working conditions. Practical implications are provided by providing company management with a tool comprising a set of factors to determine the extent to which a company is moving toward a favorable work environment. The theoretical contribution is that this study expands the understanding of how systemic factors are interrelated to form a decent workplace culture. The proposed model adds value and provides insights to business leaders, policymakers, and researchers on how to promote sustainable employment practices. Keywords: decent work, employment quality, sustainable development, innovation, conceptual model.