Balancing exploration and exploitation in alternative work arrangements: a multiple case study in the professional and management services industry

Abstract

Abstract In this inductive study we investigate the local context surrounding professionals choosing to work on a reduced‐load basis. We analyze qualitative data collected from key individuals (spouse, boss, co‐worker, and HR manager) composing a network around several professionals working reduced load in the professional and management services industry. We describe the interactions in this network using the concepts of exploration and exploitation in four contexts (organization, workgroup, individual, and family). We also identify three emergent patterns of cross‐level distribution of exploration and exploitation across contexts, labeled Solo Performance , Organic Fluid Adjustment , and Orchestrated Cooperation . Each of these patterns illuminates a specific form of interaction between the dynamics of exploration and exploitation across contexts. We examine the different outcomes of each pattern for the organization, the individual, and the family. Implications of the findings for theories of work‐family interaction, organizational learning, and the organization of work in the professional and management services industry are discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.