New technologies are redefining the workspace, from the usual concept of the four walls of an office, and translating into increased productivity and profits.
A newly released study by business centre operator Regus reveals: “The benefits that are leading businesses and workers to opt for more flexible work solutions are manifold and range from a better work-life balance for workers, to increased motivation,” the research reveals. Almost 72 per cent of the managers and owners around the world surveyed found that flexible policies increased productivity, while 63 per cent felt that the flexibility to work at any time or place increased motivation. More significantly, 67 per cent of workers in Europe linked flexibility with greater happiness and, for women, it facilitated returning mothers to maintain employment opportunities after having children. In light of all these benefits, it is predicted that, by 2013, there will be an estimated 1.2 billion mobile workers worldwide, of which almost 750 million will be located in the Asia-Pacific region (excluding Japan).
Particular technologies driving this work revolution are cloud computing and app-based solutions that enable users to work anywhere in the world securely and efficiently. A study by Citrix, a cloud solutions provider, found that one of the main technology developments is desktop virtualisation, which enables data to be centralised in a datacentre accessible by apps and “remote” desktops anywhere in the world and through any gadget. The software applications associated with desktop virtualisation, which enable users to function multiple desktops at a single time for example, coupled with cloud computing will ensure that there is a continuity when switching between devices and therefore making working from anywhere a perfectly viable option (for other technologies that will change the work environment, click here, and for a list of apps that help working on the road, click here to read the feature that appeared in the Business Traveller Asia-Pacific June 2011 issue).
However, due to cultural differences, the West is adapting to the concept of “work shifting” much faster than the Asia-Pacific where certain practices are harder to crack. According to Martin Cerullo, global director at the talent and resourcing firm Alexander Mann Solutions, there is a tradition of “presenteeism” in the region, notably in Hong Kong and Japan, where there is the belief or even unspoken expectation that employees must turn up to and stay for a fixed number of hours for managers to believe they are being productive.
“Work shifting”, however, can turn into a double-edged sword, producing expectations that the employee is connected at all times and the problem of compartmentalising work and home life. But Cerullo believes that since those threats (the reason why BlackBerry is known as “CrackBerry”) exist, senior management needs to foster an environment where “off” times are respected and upheld.
Alisha Haridasani
