Title: Assessing telework in industrial companies: a systematic literature review

Authors: Sirine Bouaziz; Dorra Kallel; Noura Beji; Diala Dhouib

Addresses: Higher Institute of Industrial Management of Sfax, OLID Laboratory, University of Sfax, Technopôle, Route de Tunis Km 10, BP 1164 – 3021 Sfax, Tunisia ' Higher Institute of Industrial Management of Sfax, OLID Laboratory, University of Sfax, Technopôle, Route de Tunis Km 10, BP 1164 – 3021 Sfax, Tunisia ' Higher Institute of Industrial Management of Sfax, OLID Laboratory, University of Sfax, Technopôle, Route de Tunis Km 10, BP 1164 – 3021 Sfax, Tunisia ' Higher Institute of Industrial Management of Sfax, OLID Laboratory, University of Sfax, Technopôle, Route de Tunis Km 10, BP 1164 – 3021 Sfax, Tunisia

Abstract: With the rapid advancement of information technology, telework has become more practical for industries and other sectors. However, even with benefits such as energy savings and reduced costs, telework in industrial settings still faces significant challenges. This study addresses a gap in research because few systematic reviews have looked at the barriers to effective telework in these environments. To explore this, we conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) using the PRISMA method to ensure clarity and reproducibility. We retrieved 2,533 articles from Scopus and Web of Science, selecting 75 high-quality studies after screening and assessment. We also performed descriptive statistical analysis using Python to improve rigor. The review identifies eight main categories of barriers, including strategic, operational, and individual, and related sub-barriers. The findings highlight their prevalence and connections. They provide an overview of inefficiencies and support efforts to improve telework in Industry 5.0.

Keywords: telework; systematic literature review; SLR; barriers; industrial companies; Python.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPLM.2025.150952

International Journal of Product Lifecycle Management, 2025 Vol.16 No.1, pp.62 - 93

Received: 14 Feb 2025
Accepted: 16 Aug 2025
Published online: 05 Jan 2026 *

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