Work-life balance among IT executives in the Western Cape
Abstract
There has been research completed on work-life balance with a focus on women, but very little
research focussed on senior management positions and especially in the IT Industry. With
technology evolving at the pace that it has this ever-changing environment requires a higher
demand in hours worked as technological methods makes it easier to work remotely from any
location at any time.
The aim of the study is to study the work-life balance of executives who are appointed in the
IT departments companies in the Western Cape. The research initiating question is, therefore,
“What are the main factors that affect work-life balance of IT executives in the Western Cape?”
Executives in the Western Cape who work in the IT department were chosen to participate in
this study. Six participants who are in IT Executive positions participated in the study. The
study followed a qualitative approach where in-depth interviews were held to collect data. A
content analysis was followed and the use of Atlas Ti.7 was used to analyse the data.
Research has shown that work-life balance is important in any organisation. Having a healthy
work-life balance in place will prevent burnout. Burnout is a serious consequence of work-life
conflict. The research aims to uncover many challenges that male IT executives face with
reference to their work and personal lives. It also uncovers their coping mechanisms that are in
place to combat work-life conflict.
The research is beneficial to IT employees who want to progress their career into that of an IT
Executive, and current IT managers employed in organisations. The research will also benefit
organisations as there are measures that can be critical to the success of the organisation as well
as the well-being of their employees and senior management. The study limitations and
recommendations for future studies have been presented in the research, which would be
beneficial to researchers.