Flexibles Arbeiten im Hochschulmanagement
Caroline Werner
July 2024

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Abstract

Flexible Working in University Management

In view of the shortage of skilled workers and the increasing demand from employees for a working environment that reconciles private and professional life, flexible forms of work have developed into a wide-ranging research topic. To date, however, there have only been a few studies dealing with workplace flexibility in university management. This study examines the perceived effects of the introduction of regulations on working time and workplace flexibility from the perspective of managers and administrative staff at the University of Münster. With the help of expert interviews, the effects of flextime regulations, part-time employment and working from home are examined in more detail. Positive effects are identified with regard to the compatibility of family and career, work-life balance, job satisfaction, work productivity, staff recruitment and staff retention. However, flexible forms of work pose a challenge for workplace communication and collaboration. A formal definition and transparent communication of work guidelines, support from the university and management as well as a suitable IT infrastructure influence the assessment and acceptance of flexible forms of work and must be considered for a successful implementation.