The COVID-19 pandemic has forced companies to rapidly transition to hybrid working arrangements. With office spaces closed and traditional work methods disrupted, organizations have scrambled to implement new technology to support remote work. Despite the rush to adopt new tools, a recent study by Doherty Associates suggests that employees are not experiencing the productivity gains they had hoped for. This article explores the findings of this study and what they mean for the future of work.
Adoption of New Technology for Hybrid Working
A staggering 77% of employees surveyed reported that their companies have introduced new technology to support hybrid working. While the adoption of new tools was initially seen as a necessary step forward, it’s clear that the future of work will rely heavily on digital infrastructure.
However, not all companies are getting it right. The sudden move to hybrid working has revealed distinct differences in how different businesses are approaching the shift to remote work. The firms that successfully embrace new technologies to support flexible work patterns will experience a significant competitive advantage.
Limited improvement in productivity despite new technology
Despite the widespread adoption of new technology, employees are not seeing the productivity gains they had hoped for. Only 18% of employees surveyed felt that the new tools had substantially improved their day-to-day productivity. Even more concerning was the fact that only 25% of the IT decision-makers surveyed noticed a substantial improvement in productivity following the implementation of hybrid working.
It is clear that simply providing new tools will not be enough to improve productivity when it comes to hybrid working. Companies need to invest in employee training and support to ensure that employees have the skills to effectively use these tools.
Overwhelmed by Too Many Tools
Employees are feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of new technology tools they are expected to use. Almost a quarter (23%) of respondents felt that they had too many different tools to be productive. They are finding the shift to new ways of working challenging and are struggling to adapt to the new environment.
Limited Effectiveness of Hybrid Working and Collaboration Tools
Only 37% of surveyed employees stated that hybrid working and collaboration tools were extremely effective. This low response rate shows that companies need to be more thoughtful in their approach to selecting and implementing technology tools to support remote work.
Leaders need to review their processes and policies with a critical eye to ensure that they are providing their employees with the necessary tools and training to work effectively in hybrid environments.
Changes in Hybrid Work Policy
The research found that 54% of capital market workers stated their firms have changed their hybrid working policy within the last year. While the rapid shift to remote work initially led to tough decisions around policy and procedure, more businesses are now taking a long-term approach.
Four percent of respondents reported changes in their hybrid work policy in the past month alone, indicating that the shift to hybrid work is still ongoing. Companies must continue to re-evaluate their policies to ensure that they are maximizing productivity while keeping their employees safe and engaged.
Daily struggles of workers
The study has also revealed some troubling daily struggles that employees are facing in hybrid work environments. Fifteen percent of workers reported that they struggled with technology on a daily basis. It’s concerning that such a large percentage of employees are finding the rapid shift to new technologies challenging.
Leaders must provide the right support and training to help their employees feel confident and competent when working remotely.
Technology needs to be people-centric
The shift to hybrid working must put people at the center of the equation. Technology is ultimately about helping people, and the implementation and application of new tools needs to be people-centric. Leaders must prioritize getting the right processes and technology in place to support productive flexible working.
The rapid shift to hybrid working has presented challenges and opportunities for businesses of all shapes and sizes. The study by Doherty Associates provides some valuable insights into the challenges that companies are facing in this new environment. Despite the widespread adoption of new technologies, employees are still struggling to be productive.
Business leaders must take a more thoughtful approach to embrace the shift to hybrid working. This includes investing in employee training and support, selecting the right tools for their employees, and regularly evaluating policies and procedures to ensure that they are fit for purpose.
By taking these steps, companies can create a workplace environment that is productive, flexible, and engaging – a win-win situation for both employers and employees.
