How Can Innovation-driven Companies and Applied Organisational Psychology Research Strengthen Each Other at the Dawn of New Workplace Norms?

Abstract

In the collaboration between the BME Hybrid Office Research Group and Ericsson Hungary, we examined the challenges of shifting workplace norms post-pandemic. The goal of the research collaboration was to provide organisational development consultation, and to publish the results of the applied research. Thematic analysis with a focus on coding reliability was used to identify employee and leader perspectives, while reflexive thematic analysis explored dilemmas faced by Ericsson decision-makers, leadership, and coordination teams working on solutions for the new norm. We outline lessons for innovation-driven companies and propose six critical questions to guide decision-makers in designing effective workplace policies. Our research underscores the value of collaboration between companies and researchers in developing effective, evidence-based workplace strategies. We highlight the value of industry-university collaborations where researchers are empowered to share realistic and practical results uncensored by the company.