Analysis of Issue

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Analysis of Issue

by nikheel » Tue Sep 01, 2009 10:19 am
Employees should expect no privacy while on the job, even when engaging in personal communication via telephone or e-mail. Employers are paying for their employees' time and have a reasonable expectation that this time is spent solely on work-related activities. Discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the position stated above. Support your views with reasons and examples from your own experience, observations, or reading


It is reasonable for employers to expect their employees devote 100% of their time to work. But they need to realise that they are overseeing a lot of aspects that can significantly reduce the quality and quantity of work done by employees. Studies have shown that working continuously doesn't necessarily mean maximum output. Breaks of 5 minutes for every hour rejuvenate the employee in a manner that he comes back to work afresh. Productivity can be enhanced by mixing work with something of a different domain, even if it is personal. By checking personal e-mail and reading news employees are taking a small break. This also keeps them abreast of latest developments. When indulging in such personal activities it is but expected that there is some privacy that guards these activities.

A lack of privacy can make the employee more detached. This directly influences work too. When working independently on a project, an employee naturally guards his work till it reaches fruition. A lack of privacy in that regard psychologically inhibits him from giving his best. If an employee comes in to work with his mind set on replying to some important personal email, he wont be able to work to the best of his ability.

The employer should gauge by themselves how much are they losing by employees keeping matters private and engaging in personal communication. This compared to employee's productivity after being banned from all distractions and having no privacy.

Silicon valley high tech startups use agile development, which provides an open environment to innovation and development. They have no restriction on the amount spent on private matters as long as assigned deadlines are met. Employees are allowed to work on pet projects too. These companies have shown tremendous results, mainly attributed to employees not being stifled by rigid rules that hinder creativity.

Google provides a 20% time rule where employees can devote 20% of their time to personal projects. Many high-stakes google products like google mail, reader etc. have stemmed from these projects. This was a great example of employees being allowed to work in their own style, on their own ideas. Having no privacy on such projects would never have allowed them to flourish.

How much ever this might help, it should of course be made sure that these 5 minute breaks dont exceed their limits.

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