Journal of Business Management

Journal of Business Management

Developing an Intelligent Model for Managing Cyberloafing in Organizations with an Emphasis on Sustainable Productivity in the Business Environment

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Rahmatollah Gholipor 1
Seyedkamal Vaezi 2
Maysam Karimi 3
1 Prof., Department of Business Strategy and Policy, Faculty of Business Management, College of Management, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
2 Associate Prof., Department of Leadership and Human Capital, Faculty of Public Administration and Organizational Sciences, College of Management, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
3 MSc. Student, Department of Public Policy, Faculty of Public Administration and Organizational Sciences, College of Management, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
10.22059/jibm.2025.384518.4935
Abstract
Objective
This research aimed to develop an intelligent artificial intelligence (AI)-based model for managing internet loafing in organizations. The objective was to reduce its negative impacts while enhancing sustainable productivity and establishing a balance among advanced technology, human considerations, and organizational needs. However, to date, no comprehensive studies have been conducted in Iran on developing an AI-based model for managing internet loafing in organizations. This study employs AI as an innovative approach to promote sustainable productivity and represents a step toward enhancing business productivity through intelligent AI-driven solutions.

Methodology
This study is applied in purpose, qualitative in nature, and was conducted through interviews with 18 experts, including AI specialists, IT managers, HR professionals, senior executives, ethics and security experts, and organizational employees. Sampling was purposive and continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis based on King and Horrocks' approach, which was structured across three levels: descriptive, interpretive, and overarching themes, ultimately yielding the research model.

Findings
The primary outcome of this research is a model consisting of five key components: (a) a central core, including one main category and eight subcomponents; (b) inputs, consisting of three main categories and 19 subcomponents; (c) processes, encompassing three main categories and 20 subcomponents; (d) constraints, including three main categories and 19 subcomponents; and (e) outputs, comprising two main categories and 14 subcomponents. This enables the management of internet loafing in organizations. Collectively, these components identify factors to reduce the negative effects of internet loafing, preserve its positive aspects, and enhance organizational flexibility and sustainable productivity.

Conclusion
The proposed AI-based can effectively manage internet loafing by fostering collaboration rather than control, promoting self-regulation, and adapting to organizational diversity, thereby enhancing sustainable productivity in businesses. This outlines a novel framework for organizations and can serve as a foundation for future research in AI and organizational management. The study’s findings can improve business strategies, increase organizational competitiveness, and pave the way for transformative sustainable productivity. Given the growing importance of smart technologies in today’s business landscape, these results can assist organizations with optimizing performance and achieving sustainable productivity. The study recommends the gradual implementation of the proposed while considering ethical, legal, and cultural factors to ensure sustainable long-term outcomes. Ultimately, this research provides a basis for rethinking how to intelligently and appropriately address internet loafing behaviors in organizations. only draws the attention of managers and organizations to the dual role of internet loafing—as a phenomenon that can diminish business productivity but, if managed effectively, also contribute to creativity and work–life balance-but also provides a practical AI-driven framework. By mitigating negative impacts and amplifying positive aspects, this model drives sustainable productivity in businesses. Consequently, this research can serve as a blueprint for public and private organizations seeking to leverage smart technologies to address emerging workplace challenges.
Keywords
Cyberloafing
Sustainable productivity
Business
Artificial intelligence
Subjects
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Journal of Business Management
Volume 18, Issue 3
2026
Pages 893-934