Purpose: This research examines the relationship between flexible work agreements, such as smart working, and corporate sustainability. It aims to investigate the impact of smart working practices on social organization, the connection between resilient organizations and smart working, and the influence of smart working on economic sustainability. Methodology: The authors conducted a questionnaire using Likert Scale questionnaires to employees of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Italy. Data were collected during two different periods, before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The questionnaire included socio-demographic questions and inquiries about the impact of smart working on companies and employees. An aggregative analysis was applied to the collected data. Findings: The results showed a positive relationship between flexible work agreements (smart working) and social organization. They also indicated a potential connection between resilient organizations and smart working. Additionally, smart working influenced economic sustainability through cost savings, improved productivity, and enhanced employee satisfaction. Research limitations/implications: The research was limited to SMEs in the Italian context operating in advanced tertiary sectors. Further research is needed to explore the relationship between smart working and organisational resilience in different industries and areas or Countries. Longitudinal studies and interviews with organisational leaders could provide deeper insights into the mechanisms underlying the relationship. Originality/Value: This paper contributes to the existing literature by examining the interplay between sustainable entrepreneurship, organisational resilience, and social organisations in the context of smart working practices. It provides insights into the potential benefits of smart working for companies and employees and highlights the importance of flexibility, resilience, and social organisation for achieving sustainable business performance.

Examining the Impact of Smart Working on Economic Sustainability

Luca Giraldi;
2023-01-01

Abstract

Purpose: This research examines the relationship between flexible work agreements, such as smart working, and corporate sustainability. It aims to investigate the impact of smart working practices on social organization, the connection between resilient organizations and smart working, and the influence of smart working on economic sustainability. Methodology: The authors conducted a questionnaire using Likert Scale questionnaires to employees of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Italy. Data were collected during two different periods, before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The questionnaire included socio-demographic questions and inquiries about the impact of smart working on companies and employees. An aggregative analysis was applied to the collected data. Findings: The results showed a positive relationship between flexible work agreements (smart working) and social organization. They also indicated a potential connection between resilient organizations and smart working. Additionally, smart working influenced economic sustainability through cost savings, improved productivity, and enhanced employee satisfaction. Research limitations/implications: The research was limited to SMEs in the Italian context operating in advanced tertiary sectors. Further research is needed to explore the relationship between smart working and organisational resilience in different industries and areas or Countries. Longitudinal studies and interviews with organisational leaders could provide deeper insights into the mechanisms underlying the relationship. Originality/Value: This paper contributes to the existing literature by examining the interplay between sustainable entrepreneurship, organisational resilience, and social organisations in the context of smart working practices. It provides insights into the potential benefits of smart working for companies and employees and highlights the importance of flexibility, resilience, and social organisation for achieving sustainable business performance.
2023
The 26t h Excellence in Services International Conference
Glasgow
August 31st and September 1st, 2023
EISIC
EISIC
1
18
9791221039054
Sustainable entrepreneurship, smart working, social organisation, corporate sustainability, digitalisation, flexible work.
Luca Giraldi, Luca Rossi, Elena Cedrola
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/2318/2071308
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