Applying complexity theory for modeling human resource outcomes: Antecedent configurations indicating perceived location autonomy and work environment choice

Abstract Who are the knowledge workers perceiving high versus low location autonomy? Do these workers consistently select work environments to enhance their well-being or to enhance their productivity? This study frames the causal conditions for answering these research questions in response to calls ( Misangyi et al., 2017 ; Woodside, 2014 ) to embrace complexity theory in management research by constructing and testing asymmetric case-based models of decisions and outcomes. The present study examines propositions relating to knowledge worker's choices of work environments, including: P1: Knowledge workers high in intrinsic work motivation consistently select work environment choices to enhance productivity. P2: Knowledge workers with high scores in perceived location autonomy (PLA) consistently select work environments to enhance well-being and/or work productivity. The study includes examining these two and six additional propositions empirically using a sample of full-time professional knowledge workers. The findings deepen and expand on prior symmetric-based theory and analysis.