Metis HR – Case Study
Are you considering compressed hours? Do you understand the benefits and challenges this could bring? Read our case study on compressed hours the benefits and challenges, and discover if compressed hours could be a valuble addition to your business. Contact Metis HR on 01706 565 332 for a FREE consultation. Let us help you get it right.
Introduction
Exploring Compressed Hours in Employment. Compressed hours have gained popularity in recent years as a flexible work arrangement. This occurs when an employee completes their contracted hours by working more hours over fewer days. This case study examines the benefits and challenges of compressed hours in employment. At XYZ, a small-sized technology company, we look to understand the benefits and challenges associated with this alternative work schedule.
Background:
XYZ Company specialises in software development and IT services. With approximately 29 employees, the company has a diverse workforce, including employees with various needs and preferences regarding their work hours including compressed hours.
Implementation of Compressed Hours:
In response to employees’ requests for more flexibility and a better work-life balance, XYZ Company approached Metis HR to discuss possible solutions. The company decided to experiment with compressed hours as an option for its workforce. The company introduced the following policies:
- Flexible Scheduling: Employees were given the opportunity to propose their preferred compressed work schedule, subject to manager approval. Common arrangements included working four 10-hour days or nine 9-hour days over a two-week period.
- Trial Period: A trial period of six months was established to gauge the effectiveness of compressed hours. During this time, employees could switch between compressed and regular hours to assess their fit with the arrangement.
Benefits:
- Improved Work-Life Balance: Employees who adopted compressed hours reported a better work-life balance. Longer workdays allowed for extended weekends, giving employees more time for personal pursuits and family.
- Increased Productivity: Some employees found that the longer workdays allowed for fewer interruptions. This improved concentration, leading to increased productivity during their compressed hours.
- Reduced costs: Working compressed hours meant that facilities were being used in a more cost effective way. The company demonstrated even greater productivity by employing more people without the need to expand the facilities. They considered reducing their costs by reaching production targets in just four days and closing on the fifth but in the end decided not to do this.
- Attracting and Retaining Talent: XYZ Company observed a positive impact on recruitment and retention. Compressed hours were seen as a different benefit that attracted candidates and helped retain experienced employees.
- Reduced Commute Stress: Employees with long commutes appreciated the opportunity to reduce their weekly trips to the office, reducing stress and saving time and money.
Challenges:
- Adaptation Period: It took some employees time to adjust to longer workdays. Some productivity dips were observed in the short term.
- Impact on Collaboration: Coordinating with colleagues on different working patterns posed challenging for some teams. Especially those requiring frequent communication and collaboration.
- Managerial Challenges: Managers needed to be flexible and accommodating in approving and monitoring compressed hours arrangements. Ensuring equitable workload distribution was also crucial.
- Employee Preferences: Not all employees found compressed hours suitable for their roles or lifestyle.
Conclusion:
Compressed hours proved to be a valuable addition to XYZ Company’s flexible work policies, offering significant benefits in terms of work-life balance, productivity, and talent attraction. However, the implementation required careful consideration of individual employee needs, adaptation periods, and ongoing management support to address potential challenges.
The success of compressed hours at XYZ Company demonstrates that tailored flexible work arrangements can be a win-win solution for both employees and employers. Only when properly implemented and managed. As the company continues to work with Metis HR to refine its policies and adapt to evolving workforce needs, it serves as a positive example for other organisations. Those who are considering similar arrangements to try to increase employee satisfaction and productivity.
Get Advice From Your Local HR Specialists
Metis HR provide specialist HR advice that is uniquely tailored to your specific needs and concerns. We work with you to reach a considered decision that is best for your business.
We can help if you are considering requests for flexible working or implementing compressed hours. Get in touch. Send us a message via info@metishr.co.uk. If you would prefer to speak directly to an experienced HR Consultant, call us on 01706 565 332.
