The role of human resource management in alternative work arrangements: review and way forward

Purpose Despite the growing interest and adoption of alternative work arrangements (AWAs), the role of human resource management (HRM) in AWAs process has received scattered research attention. This review aims to (a) theorize the role of HRM in enabling and enacting AWA and (b) propose directions for future research. Design/methodology/approach Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically shortlisted 55 high-quality journal articles. We then followed a qualitative narrative review process to analyze and synthesize articles. Findings Focusing on antecedents and outcomes of AWAs, we position AWA as a multi-level construct. Drawing from the fit perspective of HRM and Ulrich's model, we then map HRM's roles in adopting AWAs as a mechanism for creating and sustaining fit at (a) individual, (b) organizational, (c) internal environmental and (d) external environmental levels. Originality/value Our conceptualization highlights the pivotal role of HRM in creating and sustaining AWA-driven multi-level fit. While providing a comprehensive overview of HRM literature in the AWAs context, we bridge the gaps in existing literature and lay groundwork for future research.