Flexible and friendly, but is it fair? Work‐life considerations need delicate balance

Abstract

Purpose

Reviews the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

It is possible to challenge assumptions about work‐family separation and the value of non‐standard workers and to progress towards the valuing of pluralistic and equitably valued working arrangements. However, in addressing some issues, others may be generated and need resolving. The limitation of policies such as job sharing, once considered to be in the vanguard of family friendliness, will also have to be considered in so far as this perpetuates standard models of working time.

Practical implications

Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.

Citation

(2011), "Flexible and friendly, but is it fair? Work‐life considerations need delicate balance", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 25 No. 3, pp. 23-25. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777281111125372