Flexible work arrangements and workplace productivity: a qualitative study from the perspective of employees with disabilities.

Abstract

This study explores how flexible work arrangements affect work productivity from the perspective of employees with disabilities and chronic health conditions. The research questions are: (1) How do employees with disabilities perceive their flexible work arrangements? (2) What impacts do they think these arrangements have on their work productivity? (3) From the perspective of employees with disabilities, what are the benefits and drawbacks of flexible work arrangements? Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 46 employees with disabilities who have flexible work arrangements in large, private and public organizations, including higher education, healthcare, government, social services, and rehabilitation. Our methodology was guided by a hybrid Thematic Analysis (TA) approach using MAXDQA software and refined to focus on work productivity. Participants reported improvement in overall job performance, regardless of disability type. Reported benefits were job retention, disability self-management, and choice and control. Barriers included discriminatory attitudes, challenging accommodation processes, and inaccessible environments. Most employees with disabilities found flexible arrangements beneficial for work productivity; however, some encountered barriers related to policy and access. Future research on long-term job retention and a comparison of employees' and employers' perceptions would expand knowledge of flexible work arrangements for employees with disabilities.