The status of virtual workplace in Lebanon

Abstract

Purpose - The concept of 'virtual' work relates to a world of information technology and communication advancements and improvements. This study aims to find out whether applying this international concept in Lebanese companies is a possibility and what criteria should be applied. Research has proven the importance of virtual work, as well; many multinational companies have proven the success of telecommuting. This study emphasizes the difference between workers' perception regarding virtual employment. As well, it researches telecommuting in Lebanon and whether Lebanese workers are potential candidates for the telecommuting project. Design/methodology/approach - To assess the research question, a survey was conducted with the assistance of IPSOS to show whether we have significant differences in the susceptibility of telecommuting between men and women, women with and without children, and the young and older generation. Some of the statistical tests used were the Z-proportion test, the Chi2 test, the Anova test, and the Correlation test. A population sample of 300 respondents was randomly selected. Findings - The findings revealed that there was a significant difference between men and women (p-value (Sig) = 0.001 <0.05), between women with and without children (p-value (Sig) = 0.000 <0.05), and between the young and older generation (p-value (Sig) = 0.01 <0.05). However; the first two hypotheses were more significant than the third. Findings have also revealed that there is a difference in workers' perception regarding telecommuting; thus, we found a potential in Lebanese workers to telecommute. Practical implications - With these findings at hand, the researcher of this study advise to the Lebanese organizations to propose virtual work opportunities to women, women with children, and the older generation. Originality/value - This thesis relates to the implementation of an international booming concept which is being applied in the most developed countries, but has never been seriously applied in Lebanon.