Telework Perception and Implications during COVID-19 in the Czech Republic

Abstract

Background: The research focuses on the perception and implications of telework during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Czech Republic. Goal: The aim of the paper is to prove the validity of the already existing theoretical model (revealed in Romanian research before COVID-19) for the Czech situation during COVID-19 and draw managerial conclusions. Methods and data: Quantitative primary data were collected via questionnaires and analysed using structural equation modelling, evaluating cause-effect relationships between latent variables in two steps: the structural model (showing the latent constructs and paths between them) and the outer model (displaying the relationships between each latent construct and the indicators defining it). Results: 10 latent variables were defined, and relationships among them were identified. 13 hypotheses were verified, out of which 7 were accepted while the remaining were denied. Concerning the similarities with the previous research, current research accepted 2 hypotheses alongside the previous one, while one hypothesis was accepted only in the Romanian research. Conclusion: Model relevancy was proved. The research contributed to formulating implications for Central European audiences extending present-day literature review findings. Based on the hypotheses testing, autonomy and homonomy in telework should not be understood as contrary but complementary phenomena; managers should support both. Cultivated should be positive emotions about telework because they contribute to work-life balance and positively affect the intentions to work from home. Work-life balance is positively related to the positive perception of the social implications of telework.