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As the world of work continues to evolve, the shift toward flexible work models has reshaped employee experiences, workplace expectations, and overall well-being. A recent study, New Ways of Working: A Comparative Empirical Analysis Appertaining to Health and Well-being and Psychosocial Hazards, published in Technology Analysis & Strategic Management, provides a deep dive into how different work modes impact employees' mental and physical health.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote and hybrid work models, challenging traditional office structures. While organisations initially embraced online work to ensure business continuity, this transition has introduced significant psychosocial risks. The study highlights how work-family conflict, job demand-control imbalances, and effort-reward disparities play a crucial role in determining employees' well-being in online and offline work environments.

Based on data collected from 399 office workers in Malaysia’s oil and gas sector, the research reveals that remote workers experience higher work-family conflict due to blurred boundaries between professional and personal life. There is also an increased work-demand control disparity in online settings, leading to greater stress and decreased well-being. Additionally, effort-reward imbalance affects both remote and office workers similarly, suggesting the need for fair compensation models. Surprisingly, while online work provides flexibility, it also heightens social isolation and reduces access to organisational support, impacting employees' mental health.

To foster a more balanced work environment, organisations should redesign work structures to mitigate work-family conflict, ensure adequate job control for remote employees to reduce stress, and provide mental health support programs to address workplace psychological hazards. This research underscores the importance of rethinking workplace policies to create healthier, more sustainable work environments. As organisations navigate the future of work, prioritising employee well-being will be the key to long-term success.

The findings of this study are particularly relevant to business professionals, IT workers, corporate leaders, and employees in high-pressure industries where digital transformation has reshaped traditional work models. It also highlights challenges faced by working parents, marginalised workers with limited home office setups, and individuals with mental health vulnerabilities who may struggle with the demands of remote work.

This research is highly timely and relevant, as organisations worldwide are actively redefining work models post-pandemic. The rise of hybrid and remote work structures continues to spark debates on productivity, mental health, and workplace equity. As companies navigate these challenges, understanding the impact of evolving work environments on employee well-being and organisational success is more critical than ever. These insights are not only beneficial for industry leaders but also contribute to ongoing academic discussions within the research community, shaping future studies on work-life balance, digital transformation, and workplace psychology.

Beyond theory, this research provides practical guidance for organisations to improve workplace well-being. Companies can implement flexible work policies, establish clear boundaries between work and personal life, and invest in mental health initiatives and ergonomic home office setups. Leadership teams should also focus on enhancing job autonomy and employee support systems to reduce workplace stressors while ensuring productivity remains high. By applying these insights, businesses can create an environment where employees thrive, leading to greater engagement, retention, and long-term organisational success.

This research aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, as it emphasises the importance of safe, fair, and sustainable working conditions in the digital age. Ensuring job satisfaction, mental well-being, and equitable work environments is critical in promoting economic resilience and long-term employee productivity.

Dr Noreen Kanwal
ºìÐÓÊÓƵ Business School
Email: @email