Boon and Bane of IT Consumerization: The Burnout-Engagement-Continuum

Niehaves B, Köffer S, Ortbach K, Reimler S

Abstract
IT consumerization, refers to the diffusion of consumer IT in the workplace and is considered to influence work processes in organizations. While several studies provide evidence that IT consumerization can create significant value for an organization, Volkswagen and Daimler recently applied restriction for consumer IT use to prevent stress and burnout consequences. Analyzing the existing IS studies about stress outcomes, it is interesting to note, that stress-reducing effects of IT are rarely considered. Thus, the foremost negatively associated relationship between IT and stress contradicts to the mostly positive perceptions of IT consumerization. Drawing on psychological burnout literature, we investigate individual factors that influence the effects of IT consumerization on burnout and engagement. To this end, we conduct a case study in a public sector organization. Our findings provide individual constructs that position IT consumerization effects along the burnout-engagement continuum.

Keywords
IT consumerization; consumer IT; stress; burnout; engagement; case study; qualitative research