The world of work is changing. Driven by globalization, digitalization and demographic change, the concept of New Work is becoming more and more important. New Work aims to bring work and the individual into harmony. Above all, this means creating meaningful, free and developmental working conditions.
In this post, we'll look at:
- The definition of New Work according to Frithjof Bergmann
- The basic idea and necessity of new working models
- The practical implementation of New Work in companies
- The most important features of the New Work
- Advantages and challenges of New Work
1. Definition and Origin
The term New Work goes back to the American social philosopher Frithjof Bergmann. In the 1980s, in response to the wave of automation in the USA, he developed a concept that puts people and their needs at the centre of the world of work.
New Work is not a concrete working model, but combines various forward-looking approaches such as agility, holacracy, digital transformation and self-organization.
2. The basic idea and necessity
New Work is based on the idea that work should not only be a means to an end, but meaningful and fulfilling for the individual.
Traditional working models, characterized by rigid hierarchies, control and little freedom, are reaching their limits in today's world. Continuous innovation and rapid adaptability require motivated and independent-minded employees.
3. New Work in practice
The implementation of New Work can vary depending on the company and industry. It is important that the new forms of work fit the corporate culture and are supported by the entire organization.
Elements of New Work can be:
- Flexible working hours and locations: home office, desk sharing, flexitime models
- Self-organization and teamwork: Agile working methods, flat hierarchies
- Training and Development: Promoting Potential and Intrinsic Motivation
- Modern Technologies: Digital Tools for Communication, Collaboration and Knowledge Management
- New Work Leadership: Coaching, Empowerment, Transparent Communication
4. Characteristics of the New Work
- Self-reliance: personal responsibility and freedom of choice for employees
- Freedom: Flexible working arrangements and times, mobile working
- Participation in the community: Promoting teamwork, collaboration and exchange
- Meaningfulness: Focus on personal development and meaningful activities
- Responsibility: Taking responsibility for results and one's own learning process
5. Benefits and Challenges
Advantages of New Work:
- Increased employee motivation and productivity
- Improved work-life balance
- Increased innovation potential and creativity
- Better recruitment and retention of skilled workers
Challenges of New Work:
- Change management and cultural change
- Investment in new technologies and infrastructure
- Development of new leadership skills
- A culture of trust and transparent communication
Result
New Work is more than just a trend – it is a future-oriented answer to the challenges of the modern working world. Implementation requires courage, determination and a common understanding of all parties involved.
Companies that actively shape change can reap numerous benefits and actively shape the future of work.
