July 2009 - New Technology Changing The Way New Zealand Offices Operate

It might make it harder to get away from the office, but Kiwis are embracing the benefits of technology and the difference it has made to the way they work – with real benefits for the overall economy.

More than 80% of New Zealanders say mobile communications technology, including smartphones and laptops, has boosted personal productivity, according to a recently released international workplace survey.

According to the survey, by global workforce solutions leader Kelly Services, 76 percent of respondents say the ability to work outside the office, yet remain in constant contact, has been a positive development, even though more than a third are now working longer hours.

The Kelly Global Workforce Index obtained the views of nearly 100,000 people in 34 countries, including more than 3000 in New Zealand.

 Kelly Services Human Resources Director, Karen Wallace, says an increase in the adoption of mobile devices, such as smartphones and laptops, is helping to create a much more flexible and adaptable workforce, and one that is more productive.

“Advances in technology have not just changed the workplace, but also the workforce.

“Employees are looking for greater flexibility in their daily routine, the ability to work from home or outside the traditional 9-5 work day,” says Karen Wallace.

“To achieve this, they are embracing the increased accessibility that comes with the new technology – even if it means longer hours – and this is proving positive for productivity and their work-life balance.”

Even though the productivity benefits from new technologies are greatest among younger workers, all generations say that their output has increased. A total of 83 percent say productivity has improved, while only four percent believe productivity has worsened.

Among the key findings of the survey:

• 89 percent responded positively to the idea of telecommuting, working from home or working remotely, with Gen X (those aged between 30 and 47) the most receptive to the idea
• 36 percent say they are working longer hours due to new technologies, with males and Gen X the most affected
• 64 percent of respondents believe it is extremely important to have a good balance between work and social life, yet only 59 percent are currently happy with their own work-life balance

Karen Wallace says few other recent developments have had a bigger impact on employee engagement and personal productivity.

“With laptop computers, mobile phones and PDAs now standard equipment for many New Zealand businesses, employees have never been as connected, or as flexible in terms or where and when they can work.

“Employers who use technology to enhance working arrangements are also likely to reap productivity benefits and to be seen as employers of choice.”

For further information, please contact:

Victoria Bennett                                                    Gerard Blank

Marketing Manager                                                 The Agency Communications Ltd

Kelly Services (New Zealand) Ltd                             Tel: +64 3 341 5841

Tel:  +64 3 363 5322                                               Mob: 0275 243 629

Mob:  027 213 0613                                                Email: gerard@theagencynz.co.nz

Email:   victoria_bennett@kellyservices.com

Kelly Services is now entering its 20^th year in New Zealand, helping businesses around the country recruit, manage and retain the right people – at all levels.

Kelly offers temporary, contract and permanent staffing solutions for a range of industry sectors, including office, industrial, financial, scientific, engineering, human resources, executive management, contact centre and information technology. Kelly also provides a host of tailored business solutions, to provide expert support and assistance in all aspects of recruitment and workforce management.

Part of a global network, Kelly provides employment for more than 650,000 employees annually through offices in 34 countries.