Fragmentation to integration: a review of empirical studies towards a heuristic decent work framework

Purpose There has been increasing research on the conceptualization of decent work at the individual worker level in different national and occupational contexts. This has resulted in several unique and overlapping dimensions of decent work, making the conceptualization of decent work fragmented. This fragmentation makes the concept of decent work incohesive and detracts scholars, practitioners and policy makers from a holistic appreciation of what decent work entails. The purpose of this study is to develop a heuristic, integrated individual level framework to provide a holistic conceptualization of decent work to guide efforts toward enhancing decent working conditions. Design/methodology/approach This study uses the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol in the selection of eligible studies. That is, empirical studies that investigated the decent work concept and identified its dimensions using primary data collected from individual workers. A thematic synthesis analysis is then applied to generate analytical themes shown through integrated dimensions of decent work. Findings Six integrated dimensions are established in this study namely, time for non-work; health and safety; growth and development; adequate compensation and security; meaningful and fulfilling work and value-aligned and ethical workplace. Originality/value The framework consolidates existing conceptualizations of decent work and provides conceptual clarity and cohesion which can be a valuable reference for future research and practice. It establishes a solid foundation for guiding efforts toward improving decent working conditions and experiences for individual workers as well as offers an opportunity to develop a more comprehensive measurement tool reflecting the fullness of the concept.