Digital Nomads. How the era of digitalization creates alternative lifestyles

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

1.1. Background and relevance

1.2. Approach and structure of this thesis

1.3. Current state of research

1.4. Objective target and research questions

2. Definition and delimitation of terms

2.1. Delimitation to Teleworking, Home office und Remote Work

2.2. Coworking

3. Development and concept of digital nomadism in permanent employment

3.1. Definition and characteristics

3.2. Structural change in the business world

3.3. Emergence of digital nomadism

3.4. Current situation: Advantages and disadvantages in the permanent employment of digital nomads

4. Method

4.1. Choice and relevance of the method

4.2. Development of the questionnaire

4.3. Selection of interviewees

4.4. Data collection and data analysis

4.5. Reflection of the methods used

5. Results

5.1. Advantages and opportunities

5.2. Disadvantages and risks

5.3. Framework conditions and possible solution strategies

6. Future strategies for companies and digital nomads

7. Conclusion and need for further research

Research Objectives and Themes

This thesis examines the phenomenon of digital nomadism within permanent employment, focusing on how this location-independent work model impacts traditional business structures, while identifying necessary framework conditions and future-oriented management strategies.

• The integration of digital nomads into traditional permanent employment.
• Identification of specific opportunities and risks for both employers and employees.
• Development of organizational framework conditions (e.g., leadership, communication, culture).
• Analysis of the relationship between digital nomadism and existing remote work/teleworking concepts.
• Strategic recommendations for companies to remain competitive in the era of Generation Y and Z.

Excerpt from the Book

Summary of Chapters

1. Introduction: Introduces the rise of digital nomadism among Generation Y and its impact on traditional employment models and business paradigms.

2. Definition and delimitation of terms: Clearly distinguishes digital nomadism from established concepts like teleworking, home office, and remote work, while highlighting the role of coworking.

3. Development and concept of digital nomadism in permanent employment: Explores the origins, the shift in business structures, and the current state of digital nomadism in a permanent work context.

4. Method: Describes the qualitative research approach, specifically the use of expert interviews to gather insights on this under-researched topic.

5. Results: Presents the findings regarding the advantages, risks, and necessary framework conditions for employing digital nomads.

6. Future strategies for companies and digital nomads: Proposes practical measures, such as workations and new leadership styles, to successfully integrate digital nomads into companies.

7. Conclusion and need for further research: Summarizes the findings and emphasizes the need for future legislative and organizational adaptation to the evolving world of work.

Keywords

Digital nomads, permanent employment, remote work, New Work, Generation Y, employer branding, coworking, organizational structure, leadership, flexibility, location independence, workforce, recruitment, digital transformation, work-life balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the core focus of this thesis?

The thesis investigates the phenomenon of digital nomadism in permanent employment, focusing on its integration into traditional company structures and the associated challenges and opportunities.

What are the primary thematic fields covered?

Key themes include the structural change of the business world, the definition of digital nomadism vs. telework, human resource recruitment strategies, and the design of appropriate organizational framework conditions.

What is the main research objective?

The goal is to provide a neutral, scientific view on the potential of employing digital nomads and to develop concrete strategies for companies to successfully implement this flexible working model.

Which scientific methodology is applied?

The research uses a qualitative design, primarily conducting semi-structured, guideline-based expert interviews with digital nomads, company representatives, and experts in change management.

What does the main body of the work address?

It details the development of digital nomadism, evaluates its practical advantages and risks for organizations, and derives future strategies for leadership and process management.

Which keywords best characterize this study?

Essential keywords include Digital Nomads, Permanent Employment, Remote Work, New Work, Employer Branding, and Leadership.

How do half-remote companies differ from full-remote organizations in this context?

The study highlights that half-remote companies face specific challenges, such as the potential emergence of two separate corporate cultures (office vs. remote teams) and the risk of excluding remote employees from critical communication.

What role does "Workation" play in the author's proposed strategies?

Workations are proposed as a key strategy to familiarize management and location-dependent employees with the digital nomadic lifestyle, aiming to promote team cohesion and increase understanding for the potential and requirements of remote work.