Research from Ricoh Europe finds that less than one-third of U.K. and Irish employees have resources to collaborate seamlessly when working virtually.
By Maggie Mancini
Most organisations lack the technology to support flexible working, with less than one-third (28%) of U.K. and Irish employees saying they have the technology that is needed, according to research from Ricoh Europe. The study, conducted by Opinion Matters on behalf of Ricoh, polled 2,000 workers and 300 decision-makers from across the U.K. and Ireland, finding that flexible working remains a top priority for employees in both regions.
Despite the value employees place on working flexibly, many still lack the basic tools to do so. Insights show that business leaders recognise the problem, with one in four (25%) admitting that their collaboration tools are not up to industry standard which is making it hard for employees to do their day-to-day jobs.
Just under one in six (15%) employees do not have access to essential collaboration software such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom, while nearly a third (28%) do not have access to any collaboration hardware or hybrid meeting technology, despite this being in demand.
“The ability to collaborate seamlessly is not just a luxury but a necessity for organisational success,” says Paula O’Brien, director of sales at Ricoh U.K. “I feel passionately that by embracing innovative solutions that empower flexible working, businesses have enormous opportunity for growth now and in the future.”
Surprisingly, only 14% of business decision-makers cited providing an enhanced employee experience as a strategic priority for the year ahead.
The research also shines a light on how business leaders should be placing employee satisfaction and experience at the forefront of their agenda this year. This starts with flexible working, as nearly a quarter (25%) of employees said that not being forced to work in the office but being given the right technology to work wherever benefits them would be a key way to increase their fulfilment at work.
“Organisations have had several years to adapt to flexible working practices, so it’s startling that many are still falling behind in providing even the most basic technologies that facilitate collaboration and communication,” says Nicola Downing, CEO of Ricoh Europe. “Given the significant benefits that flexible working offers, businesses must prioritise the necessary tools and technologies to get the best out of their workforce and retain top talent. Yet, embracing these changes isn’t just about staying competitive, it’s about valuing and investing in the happiness and fulfilment of the people who drive the success of the organisation.”
