Economic downturn should be catalyst for flexible working

Introducing flexible working practices can help companies become more productive and steer them through the economic downturn, says Auto Time Solutions, one of the UKís leading providers of time and attendance solutions.

By developing a high performance work culture, based on maintaining a healthy work-life balance, companies can attract and retain good staff. In turn this can help to increase business productivity while reducing costs associated with staff absenteeism.

In light of Peter Mandelsonís announcement to delay the extension of family-friendly employment reforms, Christian Berenger, Business Development Director at Auto Time says: ìWhen the economy is tight, company leaders should not be discouraged from implementing smarter working practices. Instead they need to realise that retaining their best employees can give the organisation a competitive advantage when the market picks up. Unlike past recessions, where organisations indiscriminately slashed their workforces to cut costs, this time around managers must consider how they can better utilise their employees time at work.î

ìProductivity is the key ingredient for business success, which makes the current economic crisis the perfect time for companies to introduce smarter working practices. Offering a meaningful work-life balance to employees gives them more flexibility to plan their home life around their work commitments. This results in a happier, more dedicated workforce and increased productivity during the time they spend in the work place.î

For companies still apprehensive about introducing a flexible working policy into their strategy, they can at least draw comfort from the fact that technology is widely available to accurately monitor their staff, whether or not they are office based.

Workforce management systems have advanced considerably over the past decade and are now key management tools for companies that have complex working patterns in place.

The latest workforce management software guarantees employeesí working hours are accurately monitored while significant cost savings can be realised by a reduction in ëtime fraudí and ëbuddy punchingí. Such ways of reducing costs have assumed greater importance with organisations battling the ongoing economic downturn to remain competitive.

Most firms are unaware of the hidden costs of payroll. However, with the less favourable economic conditions fostering a rethink in all aspects of administration, decision makers are looking for solutions to cut costs and achieve business efficiency.

Christian Berenger adds: ìAs technology improves and becomes more widely available, the trend towards flexible working can only grow. UK organisations must overhaul their outdated working practices now if they are to retain key staff and compete effectively during these difficult times. By removing the burden of calculating timesheets, employees can make better use of their time elsewhere.î

Auto Time Solutions offer a range of leasing options for companies looking to experiment with smarter working practices. With costs from as little as 10 per week, leasing an Auto Time solution is an affordable way for businesses to effectively manage their staff while at the same time staying ahead of the technology curve.

For more information visit www.autotime.co.uk or call 0121 773 7222.