CII-FMS survey reveals complexity of work-from-home practices in India | India News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: From modest savings on office rental costs, client meetings and employee commutes to reduced commuting stress and higher energy levels among employees, the practice of working from home (WFH) has brought significant benefits to Indian business landscape, especially during and after the crisis. after the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, challenges such as the blurred boundaries between work and home life, difficulties in maintaining self-discipline and reduced communication effectiveness highlight its disadvantages. The CII-FMS study on Cost-Benefit Analysis of WFH, based on 115 responses from employers and employees representing companies operating in a variety of sectors – technology and IT to healthcare and pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and industrial and consulting, sheds light on these dynamics.
The research points to significant savings for organizations in areas such as office rental costs and customer-related expenses. For employees, a significant reduction in travel time and stress has led to more energy and a moderate increase in productivity. Flexibility in work schedules and remote options have proven especially beneficial for parents of young children and caregivers.
However, the disadvantages are just as notable. Many employees struggle with the lack of dedicated workspaces and face challenges in separating their professional and personal lives, leading to increased stress. Employers report a decline in effective communication, teamwork and… organizational cultureraising concerns about the long-term sustainability of remote working.
Interestingly enough, the environmental benefits of remote work also stand out. The research finds a reduction in the carbon footprint of organizations, in line with ESG (environmental, social and governance) objectives. Additionally, companies have leveraged remote work to hire talent from geographically diverse regions, promoting inclusivity.
Hybrid working modelscombining office and remote work are emerging as a preferred compromise. These are intended to balance face-to-face collaboration with the benefits of remote flexibility. The report underlines the need for systematic changes in management practices to adapt to this shift. Performance-based monitoring and fostering trust between employers and employees are critical to success in this evolving paradigm.
While WFH has transformed the Indian business sector, its broader implications for organizational culture, teamwork and long-term productivity require careful consideration. The research advocates a nuanced approach, combining the strengths of remote and in-office working, to effectively tackle these challenges.