One job role, two functions: Sociotechnical systems influence employee innovative behavior and burnout

As organizations adopt advanced technologies to drive innovation and performance in the era of the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0), psychological and work-related pressures on employees may increase, contributing to job burnout. We explored the associations between sociotechnical systems, employee innovation, and job burnout in the Industry 4.0 setting. Participants were 201 employees of 12 enterprises in Taiwan. Results of structural equation modeling showed that increased technical system input was positively related to innovative behavior, and, in turn, innovative behavior was associated with a higher incidence of job burnout. However, a well-developed social system appeared to mitigate this negative effect. Aligning with the job demands–resources model, the study findings highlight the importance of balancing technical advancements (e.g., automation, information resources) with social-system enhancements (e.g., employee support, resource provision) to reduce stress and improve workplace well-being while sustaining innovation in the era of rapid technological transformation.