New Zealand workers go mobile

New Zealand workers go mobile

The remote office a reality in the next decade

Wednesday, 21 September

Eight out of ten New Zealand employers believe handheld devices, such as smartphones and tablets, will make the remote workforce a reality within 10 years, according to new research from specialist recruitment & HR services provider, Randstad.

In its 2011 World of Work Report, which provides an annual snapshot of the New Zealand workforce, Randstad found an overwhelming majority of employers (79%) believe mobile devices will alter the way in which New Zealanders work.

Randstad New Zealand Director, Paul Robinson, says the demand for flexibility, and the ability to work anywhere at any time, has increased the speed at which technology supporting this 'office mobility' is emerging.

"In recent years, we've seen businesses quickly embrace mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones to facilitate remote working arrangements. But what we are seeing now, is only the tip of the iceberg," says Mr Robinson.

"In the next decade, ever more complex technology, at relatively inexpensive prices will ensure a further proliferation of mobile devices in the New Zealand workforce. In much the same way as the internet and emails revolutionised the modern workplace, the continued development of mobile technology will be a powerful force reshaping our world of work."

"Here, we're already starting to see a small number of companies emerge, mainly in the IT space, which operate using virtual infrastructure. For them, the use of cloud applications and social media has eliminated the need for IT infrastructure other than smartphones and laptops."

Mr Robinson warns, however, organisations need to be careful to adapt their policies and HR practices accordingly.

"The rising popularity of handheld devices in the workplace will require a shift in the way organisations monitor employees, encourage teamwork, and manage issues and expectations. This will provide a plethora of new tests for business leaders."

Mr Robinson says the changing paradigm of the New Zealand workplace will influence employee expectations, with workers demanding more from their employers.

"According to the research, 90% of employers believe, in the next decade, the merging of work and life will mean employees will require both security and flexibility," says Mr Robinson.

"Successful businesses will be those able to see this shift coming, and strategically prepare for the change ahead of their competitors.

"This goes beyond the current state of human capital strategising, succession planning and risk management, and delves into the very real need for strategies that will work in a rapidly changing employment market.

"The future is never certain, but this year's World of Work Report suggests a dramatic shift is on the way," he says.

"While at present, organisations are firmly focused on productivity and leadership, the emergence of tablets and smartphones as business tools, suggests organisations of the future will be turning their attention to 'flexicurity', and the challenge of managing and measuring a workforce that doesn't sit in one place, but rather in homes, cafes and cities all over the world."

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