The Hybrid Star: A Systems Thinking Approach to Hybrid Work

Hybrid work has become a common working model in recent years. However, working in the continuum of physical presence and virtual proximity increases complexity, calling for a systems thinking approach to unfold the complexities and mutual interrelations within organizations working hybrid. Applying the Hybrid Star, an organizational design model, based on a systems thinking logic, this chapter explores how a systems thinking approach, exemplified through the Hybrid Star, can unfold the complexities of hybrid work. The Hybrid Star has six interrelated dimensions (strategy, structure, technology, process, rewards, and people), where this chapter focuses on multiple levels (individual, group, leadership, and workplace level), discussing ethics, meetings, management, and workplace management related to a hybrid work context. Through existing research, the chapter demonstrates how a systems thinking approach can unfold a more holistic and nuanced understanding of structures, facilitating opportunities and challenges within the “system” working hybrid. Furthermore, the Hybrid Star guides the direction of actions by pointing toward misalignments. This calls for future research, aiming to explore hybrid work through a systems thinking lens, using methods that comply with this working model.