Madrid, España
Objective: Diagnose telework conditions and propose management improvements to maximise its organisational benefits. The study identifies sectors and hierarchical levels most likely to adopt telework, assesses its impact on productivity and absenteeism, and suggests strategies to overcome key challenges.
Methodology: An exploratory bibliographic analysis of Web of Science and Scopus publications, divided into pre- and post-COVID-19 periods, focusing on management and business areas. An initial broad search was refined to 85 relevant articles addressing telework challenges, benefits, and organisational outcomes.
Results: Six key challenges and corresponding actions were identified to optimise remote work in private companies and government agencies. A mixed telework model (three days per week) was proposed to balance organisational productivity with employees’ flexibility, work-life balance, and digital disconnection. Additionally, literature gaps on telework’s link to absenteeism were noted. Findings indicate that hybrid models enhance employee satisfaction and productivity while mitigating social isolation through better organisational practices.
Limitations: Limited research on telework’s impact on absenteeism and relocation. The exploratory approach restricts causal inferences. Dependence on Web of Science and Scopus, without cross-referencing other databases, may limit generalisability.
Practical implications: Aligning telework with individual and organisational needs can optimise its benefits while minimising drawbacks. Increased employee satisfaction could improve productivity and reduce absenteeism. These insights can support hybrid telework policy design to address identified challenges.