ADAPTING TO THE ENFORCED REMOTE WORK IN THE COVID 19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

Remote work provides an alternative method of working for organisations, which in turn became a norm during the Covid-19 pandemic. In this, paper, we study adaptation practices introduced by both individuals and organisations as a way for managing the enforced remote work. The study draws upon 33 interviews collected over a year during different phases of the Covid 19 pandemic. We apply adaptation theory lenses to examine the adaptation process over time and new digital working practices. In our study, we extend technological practices by including organisational and behavioral practices. We approach adaptation as a way of coping with a radical change or dynamic situation and building resilience. Based on the data analysis, we expend the adaptation theory in relation to different forms of adaptation to new remote work practices (e.g. at technological, organisational, and behavioural level).