A Phenomenological Exploration of Engineers’ Experiences Using Communication Technologies in Telework

Abstract

Telecommuting is becoming an increasingly popular trend in the modern workforce. Among the growing number of teleworkers are engineers, a profession where communication is a necessity. This study employs a phenomenological research approach to understand and describe the ways in which information communication technology (ICT) affects teleworking engineers’ interpersonal communication in the workplace and perceptions of isolation in social and organizational contexts. Uses and gratifications theory and media richness theory were used to better understand teleworkers’ selection and use of ICT. The findings revealed six themes: emotional impact, workplace relationships, information communication technology in the workplace, the nature of telework, telework and connectivity, and the organizational role in telework. This study contributes to communication research by adding to the growing body of knowledge about the influence of telework on workplace communication and relationships from the perspective of a niche population, engineers.