Working in distributed teams and the use of information and communication technologies

Abstract

Highlights: Working in distributed teams means that it does not take location into consideration and uses modern communication and computer technology. In terms of managerial implications, the impact of perceived proximity can add value to telecommuting in distributed teams. Distributed teams (or remote teams) are those in which the members are geographically dispersed. Some of the conflicts presented may be generated by the remoteness of the team from the project they are working on. Aim: Analyze the work in distributed teams through the use of information and communication technologies in companies from different sectors. Design/Methodology/Approach: In the article, literature and field research were used, and the approach used was qualitative. The field research was based on the method of multiple case studies in sectors such as education, technology, beverages, and industrial and medical gases, with respondents from higher education backgrounds. In addition, non-participant observation and semi-structured interviews aided by a script of questions (open and closed), and non-probabilistic sampling techniques were used. Results: The results indicate challenges such as language, time zone, culture, commitment, training graduation, and confidence trust. There was no concentration on any of the challenges, but language was the only challenge mentioned twice by the respondents. Research limitations: The main limitation of the research in terms of method and results was the number of companies investigated. Practical Implications: Identification of work conflicts in distributed teams and the benefits of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in reducing them. Originality/value: With the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers start their studies in distributed teamwork, but the theme has been discussed for a long time. The research was done in different sectors, with the analysis of a Brazilian perspective of the existing problems among Brazilian workers; however, problems between these workers and employees abroad were not identified.