Abstract
In the introductory paper of this special issue on new ways of working (NWW) the editors first reflect on the meaning of the ‘new’, finding inspiration in Hannes Meyer's essay “The New World” (1926). The ‘new’ is always relative, of course, closely associated with technological innovation, in our case digitalization, and integrates spatiotemporal, technological and socio-cultural dimensions of life and organizing. This SI seeks to offer a reflection on and contribution to deeper understanding of ongoing flexibilization, virtualization and mediation of work practices. The authors go on to contextualize and discuss the contributions of the papers included in this special issue, focussing on significant technological, spatiotemporal, organizational and individual developments associated with new ways of working. Finally, they reflect on the possible relevance of the recent Covid-19 pandemic for the future of work, arguing that this pandemic accelerated NWW in many ways and – given the many paradoxical NWW dynamics and developments – that there could very well be unexpected and adverse consequences, including a turn away from formal ways of working.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 100378 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Information and Organization |
Volume | 31 |
Early online date | 22 Nov 2021 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Dec 2021 |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:The guest editors would like to thank all those who made this special issue possible, in the first place those who contributed to the inspiring debates and good vibes of the OAP 2018 workshops in Amsterdam.
Publisher Copyright:
© 2021 Elsevier Ltd
Keywords
- Digitalization
- Flexibilization
- Future of work
- New ways of working
- Workplace