Smart working in Italy between cultural revolution, emergency legislation and a future yet to be written

Abstract

The article shows the birth and development of smart working in Italy, from 2017 to date. Both moments are seen through the eyes of the labour lawyer, whose lens have had in recent years to interpret and translate into an actual application a discipline adapted several times to the needs, even emergency needs, of the moment and to the changes in society. After an introduction devoted to the digital transition, of which smart working is an expression, the authors’ analysis retraces the origins of the relevant regulations in the Italian legal system. From the first period, characterised by a cautious use of the smart working method, to its wide diffusion following the Covid-19 pandemic, to the possible effects on company organisation, up to the regulations that will bring smart working to the post-emergency discipline.