A predictive structural model of new ways of working on innovative work behaviour: Higher education perspective in the Gulf Cooperation Council

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between compulsory new ways of working (flexible work design, workplace design at home, advanced information and communication technology [ICT]‐based communications and culture of innovation) and faculty members' innovative work behaviour. The mediating role of work–life balance and employees' satisfaction with new ways of working in the relationship between new ways of working and innovative work behaviour was also examined. Building on established measurement scales, a questionnaire‐based deductive approach was used to collect data. In total, 457 faculty members were randomly selected from universities in countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council. New ways of work and innovative work behaviour were confirmed as multidimensional concepts. The study participants were clustered in three profiles according to their level of perception of the research variables. New ways of working practices apart from advanced ITC‐based communications were significantly positively related to innovative work behaviour, and work–life balance was significantly positively related to satisfaction. Satisfaction with new ways of working and work–life balance is a vital mechanism of innovative work behaviour, and satisfaction mediates work–life balance and innovative work behaviour. Our research theoretically extends understanding of the compulsory new ways of working and innovative work behaviour in higher education institutions. It provides insights into how new ways of working affect innovative behaviour via two mediating mechanisms: work–life balance and satisfaction. This contingent perspective has not yet been explored in prior studies. Educational policy and decision makers can benefit from the results of this study by reorganizing their work activities according to faculty members' need to foster innovative educational solutions.