Temporal coordinating in flexible work systems. A qualitative study on temporal coordination challenges in consultancy projects in a flexible work system

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2019-07-01
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en
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This Master Thesis research provides insight in how temporal coordinating challenges in consultancy projects are addressed in a flexible work system. According to current literature, working collaboratively in a flexible work system impedes temporal coordinating in consultancy projects. That is to say, working on a project requires team members to perform several activities in a linear and sequential way, however, in flexitime contexts, team members work wherever and whenever they want. This challenges the mutual alignment of time within a team. In this qualitative study, eight freelancers working together on consultancy projects have been interviewed. The outcome showed that electronic communication devices like mobile phones, e-mail, and WhatsApp help to overcome team members’ separation in space and time. Additionally, honouring agreements resulted to be an important prerequisite for the team to be able to work cooperatively in a flexible work context. Finally, as resulted from this research, technology can also negatively affect team members’ efficient use of time. Therefore, team members must not solely rely on the support of technological tools when addressing temporal coordinating challenges
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen