Half of firms plan to adopt remote working long-term
51% of businesses plan to adopt remote working on a permanent basis, according to new research carried out by CIPD Ireland.
The data was published by the umbrella body for Human Resources and learning and development, to mark 12 months of living and working with Covid-19 restrictions.
The findings show that over three-quarters agreed workers should have the right to request flexible working.
While a similar number, 76%, agreed with the idea of a right to request remote working.
Meanwhile, 77% of workers said they plan to adopt a blend of remote and on-site working long-term.
Nearly three-quarters of the 400 respondents said productivity either increased or remained steady once remote working became the norm.
However, over half said teamwork and collaboration are more difficult in a remote setting.
More than 4 in 10 businesses said they have increased their use of online training tools during the pandemic, while over a third increased their use of online mental health programmes.
Mary Connaughton, Director of CIPD Ireland said the results of the survey reflect what her team has heard from members since last March.
“The levels of resourcefulness and agility displayed by Irish business and workers since this time last year could never have been anticipated.
“The determination to protect jobs and businesses has been truly inspirational and it’s worth reflecting on at this stage.
“As we emerge from what we hope has been the worst phase of the pandemic, we see the potential for creating a long-term working environment designed to find an effective balance between well-being and productivity, to the benefit of workers and enterprise”.
Article Source – Half of firms plan to adopt remote working long-term – RTE
