The Relationship Between Education Investment and Income Outcomes Among Young Thai Workers

Abstract

The acceleration of remote work arrangements during and following the global COVID‑19
pandemic has spotlighted the need to understand its impacts on labor productivity, particularly
within service sectors of emerging economies. This study investigates the effects of remote
work on labor productivity in Thailand’s service sector, examining individual, organizational,
and environmental determinants. Data were collected from 412 employees across financial
services, business process outsourcing (BPO), customer support, and hospitality administration
using a structured online survey. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses, including
Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression, revealed that productivity is significantly influenced
by individual capabilities (education, digital skills, self-leadership), organizational and jobrelated factors (work design, managerial support, communication practices), and environmental
conditions (home workspace suitability, internet connectivity). Frequent technical interruptions
negatively affected productivity. The findings suggest that remote work can enhance labor
productivity when employees are well-equipped, organizations provide structured support, and
infrastructural conditions are favorable. Implications for policymakers and managers include
the promotion of digital skill development, provision of managerial support, and improvement
of home work environments to sustain productivity in the service sector.