Technology adoption and worker engagement in remote working: Insights on inclusion

Abstract

Purpose: Flexibility in work location has become a demand in the shifting world of work, but the experience remains precarious across gender lines. Technology is a significant enabler in remote working, and therefore adoption of new technology plays a role in facilitating more engagement. This article considers technology adoption and the influence of inclusion on workers’ level of engagement. Design/methodology/approach: A cross-sectional empirical survey was conducted in a shipping company based in South Africa, and data were analysed using the partial least squares structural equation modelling approach. In addition to gender, the authors also considered the effect of worker location. Findings/results: Different experiences for men and women, and those on-site as opposed to those working in a hybrid way, were observed. The study validated the relationship between technology adoption and workers’ engagement and confirmed the experience of inclusion as a moderating trend. It furthermore contributes insights into gender differences in experience as well as differences in remote and on-site work arrangements. Practical implications: In a male-dominated industry like the maritime industry and shipping, attention needs to be given to gender differences and how to create more inclusive and enabling work environments. Originality/value: Crucially, the research highlights gender-specific dynamics, finding that job satisfaction fully mediates the technology-engagement relationship for women, while resources like autonomy and support provide a stronger moderating boost to their engagement compared to men.