Hybrid and mobile work 'boost satisfaction and inclusion'
New research into the future of work suggests half of employees will work permanently on a hybrid basis or be fully mobile. Both customer and employee experience improve as a result, with technology playing a key role.
26 September 2023
Read the brand-new Autumn 2023 issue of Think Global People magazine.
Global technology research and advisory group Omdia’s Future of Work study finds that as work styles continue to diversify, 57% of HR and IT leaders report employee satisfaction at work has improved.With companies including some investment banks requesting a full office return, the study of the experiences of 1,075 IT leaders (CDO, CTO, CIO), chief HR officers and HR directors also shows employees are less satisfied at work when full-scale returns are mandated.
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Connecting ESG, DEI, productivity and performance
The positive impact of hybrid working on environmental, social and governance (ESG) and DEI agendas is also highlighted by Omdia’s Future of Work study.Most businesses agreed that “hybrid work presents diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) benefits”. This finding aligns with conclusions from the Commission and Hybrid and Remote Working's new report, published last week, that hybrid work is invaluable for recruitment and retention, and addressing longstanding skills gaps.Specifically – and as the latest issue of Think Global People explores – Omdia's research finds:- 69% agree that hybrid working enables employees with different accessibility needs to pursue more opportunities
- 67% agree that it allows employees to eliminate location barriers
- 63% agree that it makes employees feel connected within a cohesive team
- 61% agree that it allows employees to feel less marginalised
- 59% agree that it helps to close recruitment gender gaps.
Technology supporting the changing workplace
Businesses are also seeking better support from their digital technology vendor and service provider partners to deliver the benefits.Reflecting the rapid pace of change and roll-out of AI-enabled technology – as well as the complex tax compliance and duty of care issues relating to the rise in globally mobile and cross-border remote working – 76% of businesses are reconsidering their existing digital supplier relationships.According to Omdia, the capabilities organisations are seeking when selecting partners to support their workplace transformation goals are:- a focus on improving environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) practices (28%)
- partners who outsource services they plan to use such as IT service desk, HR and customer service (27%)
- a digital platform that improves how they seek support from partners (26%).
Transforming workplaces
“More diverse work styles have impacted employee productivity, satisfaction and customer experience,” says Omdia’s Principal Analyst on mobile workspace, Adam Holtby, author of the Future of Work report.“Businesses need the help of digital partners, processes and technologies in navigating successful future of work initiatives. Our research assists solution providers and technology professionals to better understand how they can support clients' digital workplace challenges and transformation priorities.”Explore hybrid working, its impact on global mobility and latest practices in the Autumn issue of Think Global People magazine. Reserve your copy here.
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