Managing diversity through flexible work arrangements: management perspectives

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the role flexible work arrangements (FWA) play in diversity policies, and the reasons for/barriers to their implementation. Design/methodology/approach – Based on qualitative case study research in four large multinational service companies. Primary data were collected through senior and line-manager interviews and questionnaires. Findings – The research shows FWA are an integral part of diversity implementation but organisational imperatives, particularly management concerns about client interaction, constrain the acceptance of FWA and therefore restrict their impact as a means to greater diversity. As FWA have different effects (being available “remotely” vs not being available) their acceptability is not inclusive, but dependent on job character and level. Research limitations/implications – Further research is needed on the difficulties of implementing FWA and, particularly, its impact on career progression. The prioritisation of business imperatives ...