This study examines remote work practices among software engineers in Germany and Indonesia during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, exploring their alignment with the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Good Work framework. Through qualitative interviews, the research investigates the personal experiences and perspectives of software engineers on remote work amid the pandemic. The study found that boundary management preferences were not universally effective, reinforcing the notion that boundaries are not fixed and predefined, but rather socially constructed and subject to negotiation. As the pandemic forced participants to ignore their personal preferences and adapt to new situations, they eventually agreed that the benefits of remote work, particularly increased productivity and efficiency, outweighed the drawbacks. This study also revealed that different types of software engineers (managerial, pure, and combined roles) have varying degrees of remote work feasibility. Pure software engineers, with tasks requiring minimal direct interpersonal interaction, were perceived to have the highest remote work potential. These insights further highlighted how regional contexts in each country influenced participants’ remote work dynamics, particularly in terms of work culture, differences between startups and established companies, gender roles, job security, and post-pandemic situations. Considering their overall remote work experiences, participants viewed hybrid work as the most ideal arrangement as it allows them to maintain remote work while also having the autonomy to come to the office when they feel needed. Allowing workers to choose their preferred setup plays an important role in improving job performance and satisfaction, aligning with the vision of the Good Work concept. When evaluated through the WEF‘s Good Work framework, this study found that software engineers typically have substantial opportunities to meet the framework's objectives despite of the pandemic situation, as participants reported minimal impacts on job security and wages, minimal technological obstacles, continued flexibility, minimal health concerns, absence of gender disparities at workplace, and sustained job stability with opportunities for skill development. However, in the broader context of the general workforce, disparities between both countries especially in terms of worker protection through laws and regulations were observed. This study contributes to the current body of knowledge on the dynamics of remote work among software engineers, focusing on potential enhancements for the future of work. By examining and comparing the experiences of software engineers in Germany and Indonesia amid the pandemic, this study also provides nuanced insights that enrich our understanding of remote work practices across diverse contexts and settings. These findings offer valuable perspectives for policymaking, organizational strategies, and future research aimed at promoting Good Work standards for the future of work.     «

This study examines remote work practices among software engineers in Germany and Indonesia during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, exploring their alignment with the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Good Work framework. Through qualitative interviews, the research investigates the personal experiences and perspectives of software engineers on remote work amid the pandemic. The study found that boundary management preferences were not universally effective, reinforcing the notion that boundaries are...     »