Proceedings of the 8th World Conference on Qualitative Research

The present study focuses on telework implementation in the context of Portuguese Public Administration (PPA). With the increasing prevalence of telework, understanding managers’ perspectives and experiences in this setting is crucial for effective policy development and improved work practices within the public administration system.
This qualitative interview study aimed to explore the experiences and perspectives of managers in PPA regarding telework. A diverse group of managers from various services participated in the study. The research design facilitated a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and benefits of telework, its impact on supervisor roles and decision-making processes. 21 semi-structured e-interviews were employed for data collection. The gathered data were subjected to rigorous qualitative analysis to identify recurring to thematic analysis.
The analysis of interviews revealed key themes related to telework in PPA. These included the challenges and opportunities of remote supervision, implications for team dynamics and communication, the role of technology in supporting telework, and measures to ensure accountability and productivity. Additionally, managers’ perceptions regarding the long-term effectiveness of telework were explored.
This study provides valuable insights into the implementation of telework from managers’ perspectives in PPA. Understanding the challenges and benefits of telework can inform policymakers and administrators to develop strategies that promote efficient and effective teleworking practices. The research highlights the importance of clear communication channels, a supportive organizational culture, and leveraging technology for successful telework arrangements. In the presentation, it will discuss the challenges of e-research. Overall, this study contributes to qualitative research on telework in public administration, offering practical implications for its widespread adoption. Policymakers can use these findings to create telework frameworks that align with the unique needs of public administration, ensuring a flexible and resilient workforce in the face of evolving work environments.