Before looking at them in more detail, however, we would like to point out that - as is the case for other "more traditional" types of work - smart working is also regulated by very specific legislation. More specifically, we are talking about law 81/2017.
, canteen, etc.);For the company, on the other hand, smart working can:
- Promote an increase in productivity;
- Promote a reduction in the costs of offices or in any case of the places where the work is carried out in person;
- Promote the reduction of the phenomenon of absenteeism.
Finally, smart working could potentially bring advantages also on an environmental level: if you work from home, for example, you can reduce carbon dioxide emissions due to the means of transport (especially private) used to reach the workplace.
), as well as the necessary movements within the company itself.
The increase in sedentary lifestyle, if not adequately managed with a suitable diet and regular physical exercise, can potentially lead to an increase in body weight. It is therefore clear how much more important it is to take care of nutrition and physical activity when work is done by remote and at home.
For further information: Smart Working: How to Manage Diet and Physical ActivityPostural Problems
The problems and pains that could arise in the back and neck due to poor posture are equally important aspects and not to be underestimated. The possibility of being able to work where you want, in fact, could cause the worker to assume positions that are not properly correct and / or use a seat (for example, the sofa) which, however comfortable it may be in the short term, could potentially cause problems. of posture, associated pain and negative long-term consequences.
For further information: Smart Working: Postural AdviceEye Disorders
Another aspect that could be negative is that concerning sight and eyes. Spending a lot of time in front of the computer without the appropriate breaks can cause tired eyes, ocular burning, excessive tearing, visual disturbances (albeit generally temporary) and even headaches. All this can lead to a reduction in the ability to concentrate and, consequently, in productivity.
For further information: Tired Eyes: What They Are, Causes, RemediesIsolation and Hyperconnection
Leaving now the negative aspects of smart working from a strictly physical point of view, let's analyze what could become problems on an emotional and psychic level.
Among these, of great importance are certainly the social isolation that the smart worker can perceive and hyperconnection, that is the need to always feel connected and having to be connected throughout the day in order to continue to carry out their duties at any time. .
These factors are undoubtedly a source of great stress for the worker and, in the worst cases, can lead to real disorders such as workaholism (work addiction) and burnout syndrome.
For further information: Smart Working: Isolation and HyperconnectionDifficulty in maintaining the balance between work and private life
Another possible negative aspect, in a certain sense related to the aforementioned hyperconnection, is represented by the difficulties that the worker may encounter in separating work from private life. In this sense, a certain self-discipline and the ability to organize their own times to achieve the balance between work and private.
Lack of Digital Skills
The need to work from home that followed the restrictive measures introduced to limit the infection from SARS-CoV-2 has certainly accelerated the advent of smart working, at least in our country, where agile working methods were not so widespread. before the health emergency.
This transition - in some ways sudden - from working in person to working remotely could have put in difficulty many workers whose digital skills were insufficient to be able to correctly manage the performance of their duties remotely.
To remedy the problem, various companies have taken steps to carry out specific courses or virtual meetings to help workers acquire the knowledge and tools necessary for carrying out smart working.