Human Energy Management in Industry: A Systematic Review of Organizational Strategies to Reinforce Workforce Energy

Abstract

Recent global events, including the pandemic, social unrest, geopolitical instabilities, automation risk, and socio-economic upheavals, have amplified challenges and stressors that deplete human energy. Coupled with work-related stress, these factors substantially strain the invaluable human capital that fuels organizational productivity. Many scholars acknowledge the existence of a global human energy crisis. While industry may not be in a position to control these stressors, leaders and managers can positively influence employee experience by optimizing workforce energy. Via a systematic literature review adhering to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) 2020 guidelines, this study aims to explore (1) the concept of human energy and its importance in a human-centered industry, (2) promoting a culture of human energy management within an organizational context, and (3) the existing approaches and strategies that manage human energy. The search in two databases, Scopus and Web of Science, found 1084 papers. After identification and screening, 86 documents remained, and 32 papers was retained after title, keyword, and abstract assessment. Subsequently, a full-text analysis yielded 18 papers included in the review. This study emphasizes industry’s potential to address a societal challenge, “the human energy crisis”, aligning with the European Union’s vision of a sustainable and resilient society.