The clout of digitalisation and work-life balance

Abstract

The traditional workplace is rapidly changing because of the impact of digital technology, which is transforming how work is designed, performed, and managed. Over the years, overwhelming evidence has revealed that digitalisation has profoundly impacted different aspects of our lives, including how we balance our work and personal lives. Overall, the effect of digitalisation on work-life balance is complex and depends on several factors that shape its usage and outcomes for managing the work and personal domains. However, it is evident that digitalisation may positively and negatively affect work-life balance. Therefore, this chapter aims to investigate the impact of digitalisation on employees’ work-life balance. It discusses how digitalisation has led to enhanced connectivity, availability, efficiency, productivity, and work flexibility (or inflexibility) and control. It has also resulted in the blurring of boundaries between employees’ work and personal lives. The chapter then provides some recommendations for managing the impact of digitalisation on employees’ work-life balance.