Software's Impact in the Workplace: Maximizing Value
The article discusses how digital technology and software solutions, such as digital business platforms, flexible work arrangements supported by wayfinding and resource tracking systems, time management tools like Toggl, and collaborative platforms like Slack, are transforming the workplace by enabling remote connectivity, enhancing productivity, and fostering greater collaboration and responsiveness among employees.
Digital technology is making a significant impact on the workplace. The increase in connected devices has reduced the need for physical office space, and communication has become ubiquitous, allowing employees to connect virtually from homes, remote offices, or even vacation spots.
Technological advancements are rapidly changing the business environment, and only businesses that can quickly adapt will succeed in this digital revolution. Unfortunately, not all companies are capable of changing fast enough. Bruce Robertson, a business technology expert, notes that large-scale strategic business transformation initiatives often fail, as do over half of all efforts. While transformations are not impossible, they are challenging. Robertson advocates for implementing a suite of software solutions that streamline business processes, referred to as a "digital business platform." Below are three potential impacts that introducing these software solutions can have on your workplace.
Tech Options and Impacts
Impact 1 – Changing Workplace Atmosphere
Facilities managers recognize that to meet the needs of a tech-savvy workforce, they must adjust the workplace. This could involve adopting flexible work arrangements or designing the office to accommodate remote workers. With shifting schedules and increased flexibility, wayfinding and resource tracking software systems become essential.
Impact 2 – Increased Productivity and Time Management
Tools like Toggl, designed for employee time management, can help facility managers understand employee processes and pinpoint inefficiencies. The ability to gather useful information with software is key to establishing a plan to increase productivity.
Impact 3 – Greater Collaboration and Responsiveness
Online collaborative tools are changing workplace communication. Options like Slack create virtual meeting places for employees. With mobile technology, facilities managers can leverage the responsiveness of their teams to establish effective communication processes.
Bringing All Your Resources Together
In today's technological society, it is essential to integrate workplace resources by choosing agile, easily-integrated tools.
For example, you might have specialized software for human resources needs and another for space management planning. The key is to choose niche and nimble tools that work together to connect your workplace tech stack for the best user experience. Modern facility managers often prefer adopting multiple best-in-class technology tools that connect to each other, rather than relying on a single rigid platform.