Being smart about employee flexibility : Innovation in office layout, HR and ICT support

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings This paper explores smart work (SW), a work practice characterized by spatial and temporal flexibility, supported by technological tools, and that provides all employees of an organization with the best working conditions to accomplish their tasks. Four SW models can be chosen by companies. They are named inconsistent, analogical, digital, and complete SW. They are different according to investments in enabling digital technologies, in transformations of the organizational policies, and in workspace settings, according to the contingent conditions where firms operate. Results show that there are complementarities between the elements that characterize an SW model and that at least two elements are developed in each SW model. In case all the three elements are developed, companies achieve higher labor productivity. Practical implications The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.