ADAPTIVE INTERNAL COMMUNICATION AND ITS CONTRIBUTION TO EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING (PIK)

About the project

The project develops and empirically tests the Theory of Adaptive Internal Communication, a conceptual model that integrates communication practices, psychological mechanisms, and organizational outcomes in work contexts shaped by digital transformation, crises, and generational diversity. The model conceptualizes leadership communication, employee voice, attitudes toward digital technologies, and informal communication as predictors of internal communication satisfaction, which in turn affects employee well-being and communication effectiveness through work engagement, trust in communication practices, and work–life balance. The research employs a mixed-methods design organized into four phases: initial thematic analysis, a survey study, longitudinal tracking across four time points, and experimental testing under simulated crisis conditions. 

A key innovation of the project is the development of an online platform as a central hub for knowledge and research on internal communication. The platform will enable continuous data collection on internal communication practices and outcomes and will host theoretical resources, measurement instruments, and research findings, thereby serving as a reference point for scholars, practitioners, and organizations. The function of systematic data collection ensures the sustainability and further development of the model. By integrating theoretical insights with practical needs and applying combined methods, the project provides a multilevel understanding of communication adaptability. The research contributes to the advancement of internal and organizational communication theory and informs the design of organizational strategies. Expected outputs include scientific publications, teaching materials, and evidence-based recommendations for managers seeking to develop resilient and inclusive internal communication.

Total project value: 77.931,80 EUR

Project duration: October 1, 2025 until September 30, 2029

Project holder: University of Zagreb, Faculty of Economics & Business

Contact

Project leader: Prof. dr. sc. Ana Tkalac Verčič

E-mail: atkalac@efzg.hr

Address: Faculty of Economics & Business – Zagreb

     Trg J. F. Kennedyja 6

     10000 Zagreb, CROATIA