Family‐Friendly Work Systems: A Systematic Review, Critical Assessment, and Future Research Agenda of the Work‐Life Benefits Literature

ABSTRACT The increasing awareness and use of family‐friendly work activities (FFWAs), also known as work‐life benefits, highlights their importance for both employees and organizations. Despite the importance of these activities for both employees and organizations, the existing literature is fragmented, lacking a clear consensus on their conceptualization and measurement. In this review, we content analyze conceptual and methodological aspects of the FFWA literature. Specifically, applying the systems perspective from the strategic human resource management (SHRM) literature, we introduce and conceptualize family‐friendly work systems (FFWS), define their key domains, specify the FFWAs within them, and clarify their hierarchical structure (i.e., policies, practices, and processes). Building on the FFWS model, we evaluate potential sources of heterogeneity in current research. By identifying inconsistencies as well as strengths and weaknesses in the existing literature, this review provides a timely contribution that can guide future research and offer practical recommendations for policymakers and organizations striving to create more family‐friendly workplaces.