Kernuur

Kernuur is a Dutch term used in management and human resources to describe a period within the workday during which employees are expected to be available for real-time collaboration. The word combines kern (core) and uur (hour), signaling a core window around which flexible schedules are arranged.

Origin and scope: The concept gained traction with the rise of flexible work arrangements and distributed teams. A kernuur policy defines a window during which meetings are held and urgent communication is expected, while outside that window employees may select their own task timing. The exact length and placement of kernuur can vary by organization, time zone, and role.

Typical features: The core window is defined by the organization and can differ for different teams. Activities such as meetings and quick responses are prioritized inside kernuur, whereas deep work or asynchronous tasks may be scheduled outside it. Policies may specify availability on communication channels, expected response times, and how to handle absences or deviations from the core window.

Implementation considerations: Defining kernuur requires alignment across time zones, labor regulations, and organizational culture. It can improve coordination and reduce scheduling friction, but may constrain flexibility for some workers. Some teams implement multiple kernuur blocks to accommodate different regions or project needs.

Criticism and alternatives: Critics argue that fixed kernuur can hamper work-life balance and personal autonomy. Alternatives include fully flexible or asynchronous work models, rotating core times, or emphasizing deliverables rather than hours.

See also: flexible work arrangements; core hours; remote work.