Remote work as a new normal? The technology-organization-environment (TOE) context. (August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ng, Peggy M.L.; Lit, Kam Kong; Cheung, Cherry T.Y.
• Is Part Of: Technology in society. Volume 70(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-08
• Subjects: Remote work -- Technology-organisation-environment (TOE) framework -- Theory of planned behaviour -- Job performance -- Emotional exhaustion; Technology -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 303.483
• DOI: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2022.102022
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0160-791X

Abstract

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has established remote work as the new normal. However, the factors that influence the effectiveness of remote work are unexplored. Moreover, the relationships between remote work and job performance and emotional exhaustion are under-investigated. This study addresses these gaps by investigating the factors that influence the effectiveness and outcomes of remote work. The technology-organisation-environment (TOE) framework and the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) are used as a theoretical lens to examine the internal and external factors that affect remote work and work-life balance. An online cross-sectional survey of knowledge workers engaged in remote work in Hong Kong indicates that both external (technological competence, government support) and internal (work flexibility, attitude, perceived behavioural control) factors are significant predictors of successful remote work. Furthermore, remote work is positively associated with job performance but has no association with emotional exhaustion. These findings suggest that to ensure a successful transition to the new normal, governments and organisations should provide technical support to employees engaged in remote work. The theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed. Highlights: This study aims to address this gap by investigating factors affecting the effectiveness and the outcomes of remote work practices. The study results indicate that external (technology competence, government support) and internal (work flexibility, attitude, perceived behavioural control) factors are significant predictors of remote work. Remote work is found to be positively associated with job performance but has no association with emotional exhaustion. The findings suggest that to establish a new normal, and the government and organization should provide optimum support to the employees.