Editorial: Fusing management and workplace health: a research agenda on digitalization

Abstract

Fusing management and workplace health: a research agenda on digitalization Digitalization leads to changes in companies, new business models and the founding of new companies. Workplaces change when new technologies allow and demand new ways of working. Examples are hybrid-remote work, where employees can collaborate synchronously using technologies like video conferencing systems or online platforms, meetings in the metaverse or mobile presence through telepresence robots. These technologies allow workplaces to include employees and managers from a distance, allowing higher flexibility and better compatibility of family and work, contribute to less traffic and, therefore, potentially improve climate change. In healthcare, service robots can support employees in patient care in times of shortage of caretakers. Other workplaces use mental healthtech apps to continuously collect data about people's mental health and well-being, allowing workplaces to act and provide the necessary employee assistance programs. For example, big data analysis leads to new possibilities, as it can support managers' decisions, especially in complex situations where quick actions are necessary. In particular, artificial intelligence (AI) allows gig work on digital platforms like Wolt, Mechanical Turk or Uber as new, flexible work forms that can include a diverse workforce.