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Work Has Changed, Has HRM? Designing for the Distributed, Fragmented, and Fluid Era

Cover: Human Resource Management
  • SEB research

Authors:

  • Matej Černe, University of Ljubljana, School of Economics and Business
  • Amadeja Lamovšek, University of Ljubljana, School of Economics and Business

Keywords:

core HRM domains | distributed work | fragmentation | future of work | HRM design | information systems | work fluidity

Abstract:

This paper addresses the growing misalignment between traditional human resource management (HRM) systems and the realities of distributed, fluid, and fragmented work. To address this issue, we introduce the FLUID-HRM framework—a layered design architecture that reconfigures core HRM domains (resourcing, rewards, development, relations, work systems) across onsite, hybrid, and distributed forms of work. The framework is anchored in five structural principles of fluidity: spatial flexibility, temporal desynchronization, employment multiplicity, identity fragmentation, and digital mediation. For each, we propose differentiated HRM responses and corresponding information system (IS) infrastructures. Rather than retrofitting core legacy models, FLUID-HRM offers a principle-based approach for designing ethical, effective, and inclusive people systems in boundaryless work environments. By linking structural challenges to HRM innovation, we extend foundational HRM theory and provide actionable guidance for organizations navigating the transformation of work.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) addressed in the article are:

  • SDG 8 – Decent work and economic growth
  • SDG 10 – Reduced inequality

The article is published in:
Human resource management (Wiley)

The content is freely accessible at:

Work Has Changed, Has HRM? Designing for the Distributed, Fragmented, and Fluid Era
SDG's eng.