A quantitative study on salient work-life balance challenge(s) influencing female information and communication technology professionals in a South African telecommunications organisation

Abstract

Orientation: There have been numerous studies on women’s WLB in various industries in South Africa. This study is unique in that it investigates work-life balance among female ICT professionals in South Africa who work in a male-dominated Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) sector.Research purpose: The study aimed to investigate the salient WLB challenges influencing female ICT professionals in a South African telecommunications organisation.Motivation of the study: In male-dominated sectors, understanding the factors that influence women in combining work and family life is invaluable in gaining a competitive advantage by having a committed and diverse workforce and understanding how women cope with WLB challenges.Research approach/design and method: Data were collected using a quantitative approach employing a cross-sectional survey design from female Information Communications and Technology professionals (n = 50). Cronbach’s alpha coefficients, Measure Central Tendency and Dispersion, and Exploratory Factor Analysis were used in analyzing the data.Main findings: The main findings indicated the challenges of the different age groups, with the age group 21–25 exhibiting the highest score for the ability to combine work and family roles successfully.Practical/managerial implications: This study may lead to practical applications to support human resource management practitioners towards comprehending the impact of work-life balance practices, either directly or indirectly, especially females.Contribution/value-add: This study will fill the unexplored area of improving work-life balance by highlighting a unique insight into how females cope with their work-life challenges in their chosen careers.