Work-Life Balance and Gender Equality in the Workplace Case study: Design managers at NCC

Abstract

Co-working spaces have emerged as a symbol of the value of physical collocation, belongingness, and collaboration in shaping work identities. The shift toward online working highlighted the importance of providing employees with reasons to enjoy their physical workspace since non collocated employees are less likely to form meaningful friendships, weakening information spread within organizations. This issue is particularly relevant in the post-COVID-19 era, as employers struggle to plan, communicate, and attract employees back to office environments. While remote work offers flexibility and work-life balance, it can also interfere with personal life and exacerbate gender inequalities. This thesis aims to achieve work-life balance, gender equality, and productivity through flexible working conditions, examining the interplay between physical collocation, worklife balance, and gender equality. The study utilized a combination of literature review, surveys, and semi-structured interviews. Some findings emerged as a result of the analysis of both surveys and interviews. A hybrid approach combining collocation and remote work can optimize project outcomes while addressing team members' needs. A supportive company culture and colleagues are essential for achieving a workload-to-family ratio. The construction industry can address gender imbalances and inequalities by promoting diversity, addressing wage gaps, and ensuring equal access to parental leave.