The project

A New Culture Of Smart Working

Smarter Less Stress

The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated a process that might otherwise have taken more time and resources to fully implement, spurring a reorganisation of spaces and the very concept of work. In today’s increasingly digital and networked society, the adoption of remote working, commonly known as smartworking (SW), has seen a significant increase. According to an INPS survey (available here), the use of SW has peaked at 65% in large companies in the industrial and construction sectors.

However, the term “smartworking” can be misleading if interpreted in its common sense. The adjective “smart” implies a more intelligent reorganisation of the work-life balance. Yet, according to the INPS, in the last year, the working day in SW has been extended by 1-3 hours, employees have reported increased stress and anxiety, and they have struggled to separate the professional and personal spheres.

For businesses, a truly ‘smart’ approach would mean a shift towards reducing costs, optimising processes and increasing productivity and profitability. Conversely, for employees, a ‘smart’ approach would mean autonomy in managing their time and goals, allowing them to devote more hours of the day to personal interests or non-work activities, such as reducing commuting time and contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions.

However, the increase in stress caused by constant availability and the increasingly blurred line between working hours and personal time has led to a new phenomenon: the “Great Resignation”. According to Randstad statistics, 56% of young people surveyed in 34 countries said they would be willing to leave their job if it interfered with their work-life balance.

The project has two specific objectives:

  • To promote an understanding of boundaries as a barrier to the frequent interference between work and personal life, emphasising instead the positive aspects of smart working.

  • To promote greater employee ownership, as they have the right and responsibility to manage their own time and expect their working hours to be respected.

This means taking action to promote the well-being of the organisation and a new culture of smart working, where awareness of boundaries and individual responsibility play a key role. The aim of the project is to create a guidebook for companies and employees on how to improve the well-being of employees in smartworking and promote a happier approach to work.

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