Put Down That Phone! Smart Use of Smartphones for Work and Beyond. (July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Morandin, Gabriele; Russo, Marcello; Ollier-Malaterre, Ariane
• Is Part Of: Journal of management inquiry. Volume 27:Number 3(2018)
• Page Start: 352
• Page End: 356
• Publication Date: 2018-07
• Subjects: smartphone effects -- connectivity -- awareness -- control -- sustainability; Management -- Periodicals; Organizational behavior -- Periodicals; 658.005
• DOI: 10.1177/1056492618762964
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1056-4926

Abstract

Although we use our smartphone for many important daily activities, overreliance on them can have some unintended and unfortunate consequences. Unlike the devices used by prior generations, smartphones are more than mere inanimate objects, and instead have become personally involved "subjects." All of us—including individuals, organizations, families, and even societies—need to become more aware of the risks associated with such powerful communication devices. We acknowledge the myriad benefits and promises of smartphones, but also highlight their downsides. We identify a series of initiatives that could foster a greater awareness on the costs and benefits of such devices for the sake of employees, their employers, and many stakeholders outside of work.