Worker well-being in the digital economy: Lens through bibliometrics analysis

Abstract

Orientation: The study employed bibliometrics analysis to investigate key research themes and trends on digital economy and worker well-being.

Research purpose: The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of worker well-being and digital economy to identify prominent and emerging research themes in this domain.

Motivation for the study: Given the rapid digital transformation of workplaces, there is a need to assess literature trends on workers’ well-being and the digital economy.

Research approach/design and method: The study employed a quantitative bibliometrics analysis to map literature on worker well-being and the digital economy. Data from Scopus were collected and screened through Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). A total of 1473 documents were considered meeting the study’s criteria. The scientific literature production, country scientific production, conceptual structure (co-occurrence network, thematic map and thematic evolution) and keyword analysis were used to analyse the data.

Main findings: The analysis revealed the following key themes, including task performance, emotional labour, employee voice, career adaptability, job satisfaction, employee well-being, work engagement, proactive personality and psychology of work.

Practical/managerial implications: The findings underscore the need for organisations to implement employee well-being initiatives and support mechanisms to address the challenges posed by digital work environments.

Contribution/value-add: This study contributes to the existing literature by providing a detailed map of the research landscape. The study shows the need to address well-being challenges because of poverty, vulnerability and changing psychology of work. The study also shows importance of adaptability, work engagement and support systems for employees.