Role of technology on workforce trends once again reveal that the concept of the office is collapsing. Working today does not only include working hours. You need to check your e-mail boxes regularly and be prepared for emergency phone calls.
While the concept of workplace is changing, work-related responsibilities can be fulfilled at home, in the customer office, even in cafes and public transportation. In this environment of change, mobile technologies and alternative interfaces play an increasingly powerful role. The Emerging Workforce Report reveals where and how people work today, providing employers with important data about what technologies professionals working in the office or at home need to perform at their best.
The research focuses on where and how employees work, how technology affects their personal and professional lives, and predictions around the future automation of technology.
One device is not enough
Whenever and wherever employees work, they do not do their work with a single device, they use multiple devices at the same time. More than half of desktop computer users also use another device. 62 percent of employees in financial services, public healthcare and government organizations consider a desktop PC as their primary work device while at work. While employees are shifting to more mobile forms of technology at home for personal reasons; Laptop and tablet usage is increasing compared to the office.
Is the concept of the office collapsing?
Although employees can now do business in different locations, the office remains the primary work environment. 97 percent of employees spend at least some of their time at their employer’s office. In developed countries, employees spend an average of 32 hours a week in the office. For employees in developing countries, this period is 26 hours. 35 percent of employees globally say they work two hours a week in public and five hours a week at home.
While 76 percent of office-based employees state that they do their most productive work in the office, at their own desks; 48 percent state that they are frequently interrupted in their work in the office environment. According to the results of the research, the office does not make a great contribution to increasing interpersonal communication. 51 percent of employees communicate with colleagues who are physically nearby via e-mail instead of speaking directly.
Are those who work in the office or those who work remotely more productive?
While 4 in 10 employees in China, India, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates believe that those who work from home are less productive; 29 percent of employees in developed countries have no definite opinion on this issue. Half of those surveyed think they are more productive at home than in the office. The research also reveals the benefits of working from home; 30 percent of employees sleep more, 40 percent drive less, and 46 percent feel less stressed. However, spouses, children, parents and pets can interrupt work; 20 percent of employees say they exercise less when working from home, and 38 percent say they snack more.
Business life + private life
Thanks to technology, people have more flexibility in choosing when and where to fulfill their professional obligations. 64 percent of employees complete at least some of their work at home after work hours. In developing countries, employers expect employees to be available when they are at home. 83 percent of employees in these countries check their work emails after work hours. For managers, the boundary between work life and private life is more blurred than for other employees.
Technology makes you happy
One in every four employees in the world says that they are impressed by the technology offered to them at work, and that they may consider moving to a new job if better technologies that will increase their productivity are offered. Those most likely to leave their jobs due to inadequate technology are those working in the media and entertainment industry. Especially those working in managerial positions say that they may consider other jobs unless advanced technology is offered to them. While 76 percent of employees stated that technology was effective in their work last year; 46 percent state that technology increases their productivity and enables them to communicate faster.
Different methods are required for motivation
The office is no longer just a desk between four walls. Stating that being constantly connected blurs the boundaries between devices in business and private life, it is of great importance for employees to have constant access to information in the office, at home and on the road so that they can always be productive. Underlining that developing technology creates new business lines and also changes the way of doing business, “More flexible working conditions, the concept of mobility that evolves business life, and having higher technology in work environments undoubtedly increase productivity and motivation,”
- What impact does technology have on business efficiency?
- Technology significantly enhances business efficiency by automating routine tasks, streamlining processes, and improving communication and data exchange across various departments. Tools like CRM systems, project management software, and automated inventory systems reduce manual labor and errors, allowing businesses to operate more smoothly and focus on strategic growth.
- How does technology improve communication in business?
- Technology revolutionizes communication by enabling instant, reliable, and diverse methods of interaction. Through emails, instant messaging, video conferencing, and social media platforms, businesses can communicate internally and with clients globally, breaking down geographical and temporal barriers.
- Can technology help businesses reduce costs?
- Yes, technology can help businesses reduce costs by optimizing resource management, decreasing the need for physical office space through remote work technologies, and minimizing human error through automation. This leads to more efficient operations and significant savings in long-term operational costs.
- What role does technology play in decision-making?
- Technology plays a critical role in decision-making by providing tools and systems that gather, store, and analyze data. Big data analytics, business intelligence tools, and AI-driven predictive analytics can help managers and leaders make informed decisions based on real-time data and forecasts.
- How does technology impact customer relations and marketing?
- Technology transforms customer relations and marketing by enabling personalized interactions at scale through CRM systems, targeted advertising using AI algorithms, and customer service chatbots. This leads to enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty as businesses can quickly respond to customer needs and preferences.
- What are the risks associated with incorporating technology in business?
- While technology brings numerous benefits, it also introduces risks such as cybersecurity threats, data breaches, and the potential for tech dependency. Businesses must invest in robust security measures, continuously update their systems, and ensure proper training for employees to mitigate these risks.
- How does technology influence business scalability?
- Technology enables businesses to scale operations efficiently without proportionally increasing their costs. Cloud computing, e-commerce platforms, and scalable IT infrastructure allow businesses to expand their reach and capacity rapidly in response to market demands.
- Does technology affect employee productivity?
- Technology generally increases employee productivity by eliminating time-consuming tasks, offering tools for better time management, and facilitating more effective collaboration. However, if not implemented thoughtfully, it can also lead to distractions and burnout.
- How has technology changed the way businesses operate?
- Technology has revolutionized business operations by introducing digital transformations in various sectors, enabling remote work, and creating new business models such as on-demand services, online retail, and digital content platforms.
- What future trends in technology should businesses be aware of?
- Businesses should keep an eye on emerging tech trends such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), 5G technology, and blockchain. Understanding and adopting these technologies early can provide competitive advantages and open up new avenues for innovation and growth.