INTELLIGENT SOFTWARE
Microsoft announces new research and technology to empower millions of frontline workers
S oftware vendor Microsoft has released its Work Trend Index Special Report , “ Technology Can Help Unlock a New Future for Frontline Workers ,” and announced new features in Microsoft Teams and Microsoft Viva designed to serve millions of frontline workers .
The two billion frontline workers worldwide represent 80 % of the global workforce , with 88 % of organisations employing people in frontline roles . Increasingly , companies are investing in digital tools for frontline workers to modernise workflows , enhance job performance , and improve workplace culture and communication . Microsoft has seen 400 % growth in monthly active usage of its Teams collaboration platform among frontline workers since March 2020 .
The Work Trend Index Special Report reveals key insights that impact nearly every segment of the workforce :
• A culture of caring is the new currency on the frontline : 76 % of workers feel bonded to each other , yet over 60 % say their company should better prioritise culture and communication from the top .
• Frontline workers are at an inflection point : Amid the great reshuffle , frontline workers cite better pay and benefits , work-life balance , and flexibility as reasons for considering a job change .
• Optimism for tech is high : 63 % of frontline workers are excited about the job opportunities tech creates and tech ranks third on the list of factors workers say could help reduce workplace stress .
• There ’ s an opportunity to bridge the tech and training gap : 46 % of frontline workers feel pressure to adapt to new tech or fear losing their jobs – but 55 % say they ’ ve had to learn new tech on the fly , with no formal training or practice .
Microsoft is deepening its strategic relationship with Zebra Technologies Corp ., a maker of innovative digital solutions , including software and hardware . The two companies are delivering the Teams Walkie Talkie app on a wide range of Zebra mobile computers , including a dedicated push-to-talk ( PTT ) button to access Teams Walkie Talkie functionality on Zebra devices . In addition , Teams Walkie Talkie digital PTT is now available on all iOS mobile devices in addition to Android .
“ It ’ s no secret that the pandemic is reshaping work for all workers , and at a faster pace than we have ever seen ,” said Emma Williams , Corporate Vice President , Microsoft . “ Empowering frontline workers remains essential for Digital Transformation . Together with our partners , we ’ re equipping frontline workers with tools that allow them to stay connected with their team and company leadership while concentrating on the customer or job at hand . If done well , we believe technology can modernise workflows and enhance job performance while also improving workplace culture and communication .” •
Microsoft has introducedg new joint offerings with industry partners as well as capabilities specifically designed to support frontline workers in Teams and Viva , Microsoft ’ s employee experience platform introduced in early 2021 .
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