Tech & Flex: Finding solutions to support employees’ best work

Using technology to capitalise on flexible working, Alison Bawn, People Director at Virgin Media O2 Business believes you can unlock the full potential of your workforce.

The future of work is uncertain, but one thing is clear, employees crave flexibility. 61% of employees think hybrid working should be the new standard, so it’s no surprise that 89% of organisations within the UK currently have a remote working model in place. With no universal consensus on the ideal work environment, businesses must adapt to meet the specific needs of their workforce.

The challenge for business leaders is to balance the preferences of their employees with organisational goals, providing the tools and infrastructure that empower staff no matter where they work. 

The great office debate 

Addressing this challenge starts with acknowledging that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to workplace preferences. Many employees value in-person interactions, which can boost mental health, while others prefer to avoid the distractions of co-workers and the financial burden of commuting.

Leaders must recognise that these preferences are personal. The varied needs of these employees, the teams they operate in and their organisations can all be met by using technology to help foster a great work environment. In fact, 81% of staff agree that technology plays an essential role in helping them stay engaged and happy at work.

Connect and conquer 

Cultivating a happy workforce is fundamental to a positive work environment, and HR leaders should capitalise on employees’ appreciation for technology. Enhancing work efficiency through barrier removal and tool implementation, such as high-quality connectivity, supports both business goals and employee satisfaction.

Connectivity solutions that enhance work conditions, regardless of location, level the playing field for all employees. These technologies enable meaningful connections and effective work across diverse environments.

Empowering your employees

Technology has the power to deliver efficiency gains, location flexibility, and an improved work-life balance, making it a core tool for HR leaders focused on recruitment, retention, and workplace goals.

With 80% of job seekers prioritising a reduced working week when looking for a new role, automating tasks and streamlining access to documents can significantly boost productivity, satisfaction, and ultimately retention. Flexibility is particularly important for younger workers, with 81% of Gen Z valuing it above salary. However, it’s not just Gen Z who appreciate flexibility, with one third of UK workers believing that technology could enhance their work-life balance. 

Technologies like Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) offer flexibility by optimising network performance and enhancing security. Providing staff with access to centralised systems can expand your recruitment pool exponentially.

Meanwhile, supporting your team with Device as a Service (DaaS) ensures they have access to the latest innovations, reducing issues linked to outdated technology. This approach alleviates the IT burden on staff, removing the frustrations of device set-up, enrolment, and replacement. 

Invest in your people

While finding the right tool can have a significant impact on your workforce, to maximise value it’s crucial to prepare your employees for their implementation. 

With 65.5% of employees citing a lack of digital skills as a source of workplace stress and anxiety, organisations must take the time to educate staff on how new tools work and the benefits they offer, rather than solely focusing on the changes being made. Digital literacy varies, even in high-tech workplaces, so it’s essential to ensure all employees are confident and comfortable with new solutions. 

Be prepared for tech adoption to take time and consider leveraging digital champions to help staff maximise the benefits of new technologies. 

Delivering success

With an ever-increasing array of technology solutions available, business leaders have the tools to support their staff and achieve their organisational goals.

Success will be determined by those organisations that can develop a clear understanding of both employee needs and business goals. While there is no universal answer to what personalised working looks like, identifying and effectively implementing the right tools can be a cultural game changer to balance the needs of the individual and the team in which they operate. 

So, is your technology allowing you and your employees to work in the ways they like best?