EXPLORING WORK LIFE BALANCE IN EMERGING IT CLUSTERS: A STUDY OF WOMEN PROFESSIONALS IN COIMBATORE

The rapid expansion of the Information Technology sector in emerging urban centers has significantly increased employment opportunities for women professionals. However, the demanding nature of IT work, including extended working hours, rotational shifts, deadline pressure, and continuous digital connectivity, often creates challenges in maintaining a healthy balance between professional and personal life. This study examines the level of work life balance among women employees working in the IT sector in Coimbatore city, Tamil Nadu. The research investigates the influence of working hours, job stress, organizational support, and family responsibilities on work life balance and further analyzes its relationship with job satisfaction.A descriptive and analytical research design was adopted for the study. Primary data were collected from 500 women employees working in various IT companies in Coimbatore through a structured questionnaire. Statistical tools such as percentage analysis, mean, standard deviation, chi square test, correlation analysis, and regression analysis were employed to test the hypotheses and interpret the findings. The results of the study are expected to provide empirical insights into how work related and family related factors shape the work life balance of women professionals in a Tier II city context. The findings will help organizations design supportive human resource policies that promote flexibility, reduce stress, and enhance employee satisfaction. The study contributes region specific evidence to the growing body of literature on work life balance among women in the Indian IT sector.