Alternative Work Arrangements for the Contemporary Workplace

This chapter recognizes that today’s world of work is also characterized by change. This chapter specifically focuses on the nuances of what is described as the contemporary workplace, which has direct implications for work arrangements. The contemporary workplace is described as one which requires flexible work practices and a shift away from rigid views of prescribed work arrangements. There are several flexible work practices that employers can adopt to develop and maintain an effective workforce. The alternative work arrangements explored include telecommuting/remote work, flexi-time, compressed work schedule, work/job sharing, and non-regular work. While such work arrangements have surfaced within the literature in the past few years, many businesses have been resistant to incorporate such practices into mainstream work arrangements. Research is examined which provides support for the move away from rigid systems and formalized procedures, to trusting workers and allowing them greater autonomy and flexibility to complete tasks and achieve their goals. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is also assessed since it represents one of the recent and direct pull factors toward the acceptance of alternative work arrangements. Finally, research gaps are outlined.