The modern workplace is driven by information technology . It touches everything we do , across nearly all business sectors , from real estate and manufacturing to education and healthcare . But beyond the Internet of Things , how do we make sure our relationship with technology is a positive one ?
Every day , individuals across the globe head to the office , sit down at their desks , and start clicking away on a computer . Thanks to the digital revolution , many of the duties we perform have been made easier and more efficient . But despite the reliability , speed , and user-friendliness of computer and Internet platforms , there is another side . These devices require tremendous human input and engagement , and the human mind can be shaped and impacted by the technology we use .
DECIPHERING THE HUMAN FACTOR Technological advancement and increased productivity can go hand-in-hand . However , not all of the impacts of technology in the workplace are constructive . According to the MIT Sloan Management Review , it may be taking a toll on the workforce .
Based on research spanning seven years , 3,100 employees , and 28 organizations in the United States , the journal uncovered rather startling findings regarding human interactions with IT . Stress-induced health problems due to multitasking and technology addiction and abuse are just some of the findings from researchers . Becoming overly reliant on technology can severely undermine the goals and mission of a company .
THE LEADER ’ S IMPERATIVE As a business leader , it ’ s easy to focus only on the bottom line without recognizing the human element of business operations . Technology in its various forms , including the Internet of Things , represents an extremely valuable set of tools intended to help humans work better and faster . Yet if these tools compromise the mental or physical well-being of employees , the benefits for the business may be lost entirely .
The challenge to effectively utilizing technology lies in viewing these platforms as tools , not indispensable crutches . When employees become too reliant on technology or too inundated with the number of devices and interfaces , the likelihood of misuse and stress increases . It ’ s important to pay attention to how ( and how much ) it ’ s being used — to make sure it continues to help productivity rather than hinder it .
RETHINKING THE WORKPLACE While there is no set formula for the appropriate amount of technology a business should employ , there are steps leaders can take to mitigate potential negative side effects . When considering new tech , executives should be prepared to allocate the necessary resources to teaching employees how to use it appropriately . Just as importantly , leaders must foster environments in which employees are encouraged to reflect on their individual relationships with tech , so they know where to set limitations .
Looking again to the MIT study , researchers found that employees who truly understand the functions of the technology they use at work were less likely to suffer from high stress , especially compared to employees who used platforms that provided more functionality than necessary . Additionally , employees who were given the freedom to experience or explore programs and devices became more fluent and skilled users compared to employees who underwent more formal training endeavors . These findings show that employees who are comfortable and confident using workplace tech do so more effectively and efficiently .
CONNECT TECHNOLOGY SUMMER 2015 // SNB . COM | 17