The last two years of the COVID-19 pandemic have forced many organisations to operate fully remotely. As the pandemic subsides and promising signs of economic recovery, many companies are contemplating a safe return to the office and hybrid work.
However, business leaders struggle to understand what employees want and how to support them to do their jobs productively.
The IDC Future of Work Employee Perspectives Survey for Asia/Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ) noted that flexibility and sustained productivity continue to be the strongest sentiment in the region.
The study reveals that more than 56% of the employees in Asia/Pacific (excluding Japan) want flexible work with options to work both in the office and remotely, even beyond the pandemic.
IDC data shows that more than 70% of the employees said their productivity was higher or at least at the same level compared to pre-pandemic.
Deepan Pathy, senior research manager for future of work practice, IDC Asia/Pacific, says as employees reassess their current employment, talent retention is a top business agenda item for organisations.
"To successfully compete and thrive in the labour market and retain the best talent, organisations need to deliver enhanced employee experience – one that focuses on providing flexibility, well-being and safety of employees, and building a more empowered and motivated workforce," he added.
Despite sustained productivity for many while working remotely, IDC’s latest survey reveals that Asia/Pacific employees felt they needed to overcome various technological challenges around access, tools, apps, data, and networks.
The top five technologies that employees believe will support their productivity include: moving data and applications to the cloud, collaboration tools, connectivity/broadband solutions, 5G connectivity, and on-demand IT support.
Health and safety are among the top concerns for Asia/Pacific employees when returning to the office, most companies across all industries are mandating vaccination for their employees.
However, the vaccination mandate alone is not enough for a safe return to the office; companies need to rethink and replan their office spaces to ensure they meet employee needs for health and wellbeing.
Smart office technologies such as temperature sensing, upgraded ventilation, contactless sensors, touchless fixtures, robotic cleaning, and smart meeting room management are some examples that can facilitate a safer office environment.
