Jason Spry, Portfolio Leader for Process Automation at Ricoh Europe
The workplace of today is always changing. The workplace is constantly evolving. With the rapid introduction of new technology, the changing expectations of multi-generational workers, and the ongoing hybrid work debate, optimising employee experience has become increasingly difficult.
Our recent research has revealed that automation technologies, such as workflow management and digital archiving, are becoming more important to employees.
When asked what would make them more fulfilled, a quarter of respondents said that having the right technology would allow them to spend their time on rewarding tasks. Another 21% stated that better software, such as automation, would make it less likely for them to leave their current position in the next year. Employees no longer rely solely on traditional incentives to motivate them, but instead are seeking tools that will enhance their productivity and job happiness.
Businesses must adapt to the changing needs of their employees and adopt new technologies. They risk losing their best employees if they don’t.
A clear appetite for process automation
Automation technologies are increasingly being requested by employees to eliminate mundane and repetitive work. These demands are a result of a collective desire to have more time for meaningful work aligned with personal goals and professional development.
Although business leaders are aware of the desire of employees for automation, they have not been able to implement such technologies as quickly as it could be. In fact, nearly a third of employees (32%) say that they don’t yet have access to automation technologies despite wanting them.
This isn’t just an IT problem; it’s also a missed chance to empower employees to work smarter and not harder. Employees who are stuck in a routine can easily become disengaged. This makes it easier for their competitors to lure them away with more rewarding work environments.
A preoccupation with the mundane also stifles employees’ creativity and innovation potential, which further undermines business growth. If organisations fail to embrace automation in a broader sense, they risk losing their top talent to competitors who provide more dynamic and innovative roles.
Business leaders drag their heels
It is not always easy to implement process automation, despite the obvious benefits.
Over the years, many organisations have created a complex web that is difficult to navigate. The complexity of this structure can be a challenge. Untangling the processes in order to introduce new automation technology can be like trying to build an aircraft as it is flying.
So it is not surprising that almost one third (30%) say they require better guidance to integrate automation without disrupting current processes. Many are hesitant to take action because they fear a botched integration that could cause downtime or operational problems. The anxiety may be due to a lack understanding of the risks and rewards as well as past negative experiences when technology integrations did not go according to plan.
Delaying these investments can only slow down efforts to increase productivity and cause employees to look for pastures elsewhere.
How to overcome nervousness and deliver business impact
While their hesitation is understandable for business leaders, they must find a way to deploy technology that automates processes. Automation is not an option anymore; it’s essential to remain competitive in the fast-paced world of business today.
Any automation strategy must be customized to meet specific business needs. This will ensure that the solutions are tailored to actual business needs and not just generic fixes. One-size-fits all approaches can result in wasted resources and unproductive outcomes. Any automation strategy should include employees and key stakeholders from the beginning. Gathering input from employees and key stakeholders helps to alleviate fears, while also creating a sense ownership of the changes. This fosters a more collaborative work environment.
Instead of implementing a large-scale transformation at once, businesses should start by automating smaller and more manageable tasks. Pilot phases are a great way to build confidence, demonstrate tangible benefits and smooth any unexpected issues. Organisations can gain more support for large-scale initiatives by demonstrating quick victories.
A digital partner with experience, such as Ricoh, can guide you through the technical complexity to make sure that your transition goes smoothly. This will maintain business continuity and empower employees to do their best. These partnerships provide not only valuable expertise, but also facilitate an easier integration process. This allows companies to maximize the potential of automation technology.
Automation for a satisfied workforce
Process automation is not a nice-to-have in an age of employee apathy. It’s now a must-have for companies that want to retain their best talent and gain competitive advantage. The technology of process automation can transform mundane routines into an opportunity for growth and creativity, which will allow employees to be more motivated and fulfilled in their jobs.
In the end, business decision makers must overcome their fear of unknowns. Organisations can implement automation technologies with confidence if they have the right digital partner and team in place. This proactive approach does not only reduce the risks of change, but it also promotes a culture that encourages continuous improvement and adaptability. These are vital traits in today’s rapidly changing marketplace. Process automation can help organisations retain and attract top talent and position them to effectively respond to future challenges and opportunity.
The first time this post appeared was on Human Resources News.
