IMPACT OF REMOTE WORKING ON EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY IN LEBANESE SMEs
الكلمات المفتاحية:
remote، employee productivity، Lebanon، Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs)الملخص
The global workforce has undergone a profound transformation in recent years, with an increasing number of employees working remotely or with flexible schedules. This shift has been accelerated by technological advancements and the changing nature of work. The COVID-19 epidemic has also resulted in a significant shift in how individuals used to work. The move to remote working has changed the traditional workplace landscape and requires a comprehensive examination of its impact. While flexibility and autonomy are advantages of working remotely, there are potential disadvantages as well, including a possible decline in cooperation, isolation, and difficulties in controlling and monitoring worker performance. As a result, academic research and corporate concerns have shifted their attention to the effects of remote work on worker productivity. This paper explores the impact of remote working on employee productivity in Lebanon targeting Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs) , examining both the benefits and challenges associated with this new way of working—a trend that is quite significant in today's world, even in Lebanon. Understanding the impact of remote working on productivity is crucial for establishing a healthy work environment as organizations increasingly adopt it. The findings suggest that while remote working can lead to greater flexibility and work-life balance, it also poses challenges such as communication barriers and feelings of isolation. Understanding the nuanced relationship between remote work, and employee productivity is essential for SMEs seeking to optimize their work arrangements and create an environment conducive to both individual well-being and organizational success. Providing a systematic analysis and theory-building of academic research to make these discussions more informed and evidence-based needs to be a priority. Society and technology are now at a crossroad where WFH is changing the workplace and must be better understood.
