Employees frustrated by misaligned technology investments

Research released by Ricoh Europe reveals a disconnect between employer and employee perceptions of the workplace experience.

The research, conducted by Opinium and analysed by CEBR on behalf of Ricoh Europe, polled 6,000 workers and 1,500 decision makers across the continent*. It finds that almost three quarters (72%) of decision makers say they design employee workplace processes and systems with employee experience in mind, but only 58% of workers agree.

Furthermore, more than a third (36%) of workers report that new technology being introduced across their organisation won’t impact their work. This suggests that many employers are failing to understand and reflect the needs of their people when it comes to digital transformation. As a result, technology investments designed to improve the working experience may be missing the mark.

Businesses that fail to act could risk productivity and growth, as well as talent attraction and retention. This is particularly pertinent given one in three (30%) employees cite working conditions and employee experience as a reason to stay with their current employer. 

What’s more, replacing top talent can be an expensive process for businesses, with the research finding the average cost of replacing an employee stands at €10,600 across the EU.

However, uptake of digital workspace technology designed to enhance employee experience is low. One-in-three European businesses do not currently use productivity and project management software (32%), automation software (34%) or hybrid meeting technology (30%), despite employees wanting to see these implemented.

To create an attractive proposition that workers want to be part of employers must not only consult their employees, but ensure feedback is embedded into workplace solutions.

Implementing people-centric workplace strategies and investments enhances workplace experience and employee loyalty, while enabling the delivery of more valuable, efficient work and better results. Research suggests that many employees are already acutely aware of this, with the majority (64%) remarking they could bring more value to their company with the right technologies and tools.

Nicola Downing, CEO, Ricoh Europe, says: “Businesses are working hard to ensure they invest in the tools and technologies that will futureproof growth and help them remain competitive. But our research suggests they’re failing to connect with employees on the processes and services that will make working easier, more efficient and, in many cases, more enjoyable. Decision makers can’t afford to delay. Without an optimal working environment, employees may start to look for pastures new.

“People need to be at the centre of any workplace transformation, with their needs and pain points listened to and actively addressed. This is vital to talent attraction and retention, boosting collaboration productivity and ensuring a sense of fulfilment through work across the organisation.”