Economics and Business Management

The impact of flexible work schedules on employee productivity in the modern business environment

S. Holovchenko
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Abstract

This study aimed to examine the impact of flexible work schedules on employee performance and to explore their benefits and challenges. The research methodology included a review of practical cases of flexible work schedule implementation in countries such as Sweden, Finland, the USA, Japan, the Netherlands, India, the UK, Germany, and Israel. A survey was also conducted among 500 employees across various industries in Ukraine. The results of the study indicate that flexible work schedules contribute to increased productivity, improved work-life balance, and reduced stress levels among employees. In particular, in creative and highly skilled professions, flexibility allows employees to adapt the work process to their individual rhythm, thereby increasing both the quality and speed of task completion. However, in sectors where synchronisation of work is essential, such as manufacturing or the civil service, the implementation of flexible work schedules faces certain limitations. A study of the Ukrainian context revealed that the war has been a catalyst for the introduction of flexible employment models, particularly in response to challenges related to air raids, power outages, and the forced relocation of workers. The survey found that 75% of respondents reported increased productivity as a result of flexible schedules, while the main challenges identified were time management and ensuring effective team interaction. It was concluded that the successful implementation of flexible schedules depends on the level of digitalisation, organisational culture, and adaptation to the specific nature of the tasks. It is recommended to invest in digital technology infrastructure, ensure equal access to flexible forms of employment, and regularly monitor their effectiveness. The results obtained may be useful for developing national policies and management decisions aimed at adapting organisations to modern challenges

Keywords

autonomy; innovation; organizational culture; adaptability; risks and barriers

Suggested citation
Holovchenko, S. (2024). The impact of flexible work schedules on employee productivity in the modern business environment. Economics and Business Management, 15(4), 47-64. https://doi.org/10.31548/economics/4.2024.47
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