Technology and communications have made the life of the common man easier.
This is corroborated by the fact that 72 per cent of Indian respondents surveyed by HR solutions firm Kelly Services say that their productivity has become "much better' because of the benefits of new technologies being generated across generations. Almost 20 per cent say it has become "slightly better" while 3 per cent say it is "lower" because of the new technologies.
More than 90 per cent of Indian respondents say mobile technology such as smartphones and laptops have boosted personal productivity and transformed their work-life balance, according to the latest Kelly Global Workforce Index that reveals opinions about work and workplace from a generational viewpoint.
"The explosion of mobile devices is helping create a much more flexible and adaptable workforce and one that is more productive. Many employees now have the capacity to work from home or away from the office at any hour of the day and this is proving positive for productivity and work-life balance. Even though some are working longer hours, this is largely offset by the greater freedom and flexibility of the virtual workplace," said Dhiren Shantilal, senior vice-president, APAC, Kelly Services.
This is being spearheaded by Gen Y (aged 18-29) employees, who place a much higher priority on a sound work-life balance than Gen X (aged 30-47), and baby boomers (aged 48-65), according to the survey.
"There is a blurring of the line between work and personal life as employees are integrating information technology into their lives at many levels. Employers who use technology to enhance working arrangements are also likely to reap productivity benefits and to be seen as employers of choice," added Shantilal.
The survey, which obtained the views of nearly 100,000 people in 34 countries, including around 5,000 in India, found that 83 per cent respondents said the ability to work outside the office, yet remain in constant contact, had been a positive development, even though half are now working longer hours.