Managing Constant Connectivity

Abstract

Work in organizations is shaped by the interaction between technical and social systems. An effective sociotechnical system aligns with the organization’s values and culture as technological systems evolve. Misalignment between these systems can lead to unintended behaviours among organizational members. This study adopts a sociotechnical systems perspective to understand and compare the experiences of knowledge workers in Australia and India. Open-ended survey questions yielded 393 responses (N), with 196 (n₁) from Australia and 197 (n₂) from India. Five themes emerged through reflexive thematic analysis: the psychological impact of availability expectations, digital disengagement as coping, perceived control, learning and adaptation, and sociotechnical conditions shaping work experiences. Conservation of Resources theory was used to interpret employee experiences of constant connectivity and technology-related overload and stress as outcomes of an imbalance between technical and social systems. The findings highlight cross-country similarities and differences in the sources and experiences of constant connectivity and the strategies employees use to manage its effects. Drawing on these findings, the study develops three theoretical propositions concerning: (1) how sociotechnical conditions shape connectivity and availability expectations; (2) how constant connectivity depletes employees’ personal resources; and (3) how individual and organizational resources help mitigate these effects. The study concludes with theoretical and practical implications, limitations, and directions for future research, including richer qualitative methods and further consideration of policies such as the right to disconnect.