Examining the Impact of Human Resource Management (HRM) on Telework Participation Among US Federal Employees

Abstract

This dissertation investigates telework participation within the US federal government, structured through three interconnected articles from a human resource management perspective. It sheds light on the factors critical for the successful implementation of telework including human resource management (HRM) practices, differences among generational cohorts, and the role of line managers. Chapter 1 presents the motivation for this dissertation, theoretical foundations, an overview of telework within the US federal government, and a summary of the three research studies conducted. Chapter 2 introduces the first manuscript, which examines the impact of HRM practices on telework participation among US federal employees using the Ability, Motivation, and Opportunity (AMO) framework. This study analyzes data from the 2015 Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey (FEVS) through multinomial logistic regression. The results highlight that skills enhancement, promotional opportunities, and cooperative work environments significantly correlate with the likelihood of telework participation. Chapter 3, the second manuscript, applies generational cohort theory to investigate differences in telework participation among generational groups. Utilizing multinomial logistic regression analysis on FEVS data from 2013, 2014, and 2015, the study finds varied preferences for telework across Millennials, Generation X, Late Baby Boomers, and Early Baby Boomers. Generation X shows the most likelihood of telework participation compared to Millennials and Baby Boomers, with Early Baby Boomers displaying the least inclination. Chapter 4, the third manuscript, assesses the role of line managers as HRM partners and facilitators in telework participation. Applying Leader Member Exchange (LMX) theory and 2015 FEVS data, the study finds that the quality of relationships between line managers and employees -marked by mutual trust, support, and respect – enhances the likelihood of telework participation. Chapter 5 concludes this dissertation with summaries of research findings, theoretical and practical implications, research limitations, and avenues for future research directions.