An ethical appraisal of telework

Abstract

This thesis sets out to address the topic of telework focusing on the relationship between employer and employee and the advantages and disadvantages of telework to both parties. It explores the challenges and success factors relating to one’s working in a location away from the organisation’s headquarters and team members. The adoption of telework in Malta is quite a recent phenomenon. There does not exist any commonly agreed definition of telework and the law does not adequately protect teleworkers. Significantly, the effective promotion of ICT is considered as an advantageous incentive in the country’s adoption of technology. The undertaking of telework is encouraged as it not only enhances work-life balance, but it presents work opportunities for individuals who are otherwise unable to enrol in formal employment namely; women, persons with caring responsibilities and persons with disabilities. This study will focus on the reality of telework, as the image presented tends to emphasise more the positive aspects of telework, namely the cost-cutting saving and the flexibility of work, which leads to more effective use of time. Telework seems to be presented only as an emancipated mode of employment which provides individuals the sovereignty to coordinate their own time and the possibility to work in the comfort of their own home. However, teleworking might be a cause of family life disruption as, working from home, teleworkers are seen to be available to their work at all times of day and night. In this dissertation, the ethical ambiguities and challenges of teleworking will be explored and analysed. Ethical issues and responsibilities of telework ought to illumine the code of conduct that guides employees, managerial staff and corporate members to do what is right and not only what legally binds them. In the conclusion, the findings will be highlighted, and a critical analysis of the findings will be provided, amalgamating all perspectives concerning the advantages and disadvantages of telework. Hopefully, this dissertation will assist in the generation of contributions and facilities towards an ethical implementation of telework by companies and public organisations while indicating the real potential that telework incorporates.