Chapter 19: Flexible working and the future of urban mobility: a novel conceptual framework
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This paper presents a spatio-temporal framework for conceptualising and measuring working flexibility. We argue that the transition from conventional working model towards flexible working is not a simple change of workplace or working schedule, but involves transitions between latent, distinct lifestyles which can be empirically identified. The lifestyle choices are characterised by complex trade-offs between locational and time choices at both inter- and intra-day scales. The framework enables targeted and post-pandemic relevant categorisation of working patterns beyond the trichotomy of home-based, office-based and hybrid working. We further leverage the two-dimensional flexibility to contextualise a green pandemic recovery through flattening peak-time traffic demand, promoting low-carbon travel and enhancing the subjective wellbeing of travellers. Policies aimed at returning to the pre-pandemic levels of office-base working will have detrimental effects on wellbeing; instead, our evidence-based approach focus on facilitating the choice and transitions between lifestyles in an inter-sectoral manner.

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