Boosting playful work design: a test of a micro and modular e-intervention

Purpose Playful work design (PWD) refers to approaching and performing work activities playfully to foster fun and challenge. In this study, we build on the idea that PWD stems from a malleable metacognitive competency that can be cultivated through intentional activities. Design/methodology/approach Accordingly, we developed and tested a micro (Study 1) and a modular PWD e-intervention (Study 2) aimed at nurturing the knowledge, skills and abilities central to PWD. Findings Results of Study 1 (N = 74 individuals, n = 432 days) revealed that actively completing exercises can promote designing competition but not designing fun. In Study 2, individuals who actively participated in the modular e-intervention increased in both designing fun and designing competition (N = 127 individuals; n = 549 weeks). In both studies, mere exposure to the e-intervention did not predict outcomes. Across both studies, PWD was positively related to creative performance through informal learning (Study 1) and self-efficacy (Study 2). Originality/value The findings highlight the promise of e-interventions in cultivating PWD, which can help to strengthen employees' creative performance.