Covid19: How have Swiss companies experienced the switch to telework?

The current health context has forced governments to make telework compulsory. Switzerland was no exception during the breaking waves of the Covid-19. As a reminder, it is only since May 31, 2021 that the obligation to telework has been lifted under certain conditions. Has this switch to telework had any impact, negative or positive, on Swiss companies?

Teleworking - the advantages for digitized companies

Even though teleworking is traditionally seen as an inefficient alternative to remote working, Covid-19 has imposed it as the solution so that companies can continue to produce. In this regard, digitized companies have taken the lead since the dematerialization of processes and services has already been implemented and has been tested. For these companies, digitization has made the switch to teleworking easier. They were better prepared for this new form of work thanks to a system allowing remote monitoring and collaboration, whether internally or externally. These companies have seen the very clear correlation between the level of digitization and competitiveness since they have actually seen the impact of the sums invested. Indeed, in order to ensure a successful digital strategy, some companies have been assisted by a consulting firm. digitalization consulting. Conversely, several SMEs, with little or no digital literacy, had to close their doors following the crisis, since they did not have the means to maintain their customers.

The impacts of teleworking

One year after the introduction of teleworking at the global level, numerous studies have looked into the impacts of the home office on companies and on employees. These studies are currently focused on short-term impacts, since it will take even longer to detect the impacts that permanent teleworking will generate in the long term.

The advantages of teleworking

In general, for companies, there is a reduction in daily expenses: energy expenses, and expenses related to personnel, in particular the canteen or transport. While on the employee side, there is flexibility, the elimination of trips and therefore the reduction of stress and fatigue which can have a negative impact on their productivity. This feeling of freedom and this autonomy of time management are also the main sources of motivation, especially among the young generation, which is more and more inclined to telework. Companies must take this expectation into account to find an optimal working model for the next generation. Indeed, today, managers are aware that digitization is a fundamental axis for the development of a company. They agreed that digitalization can have beneficial effects on the work itself and on the results.

The disadvantages of teleworking

But like any medal has its reverse, teleworking also knows its limits. Studies show that in today's digital world, cyber attacks are more and more frequent, companies must invest to secure their data. There is also a new trend among employees, which is hyperconnectivity or having trouble disconnecting from work. Some even put in more hours to meet the demands of the job. There is also the risk of isolation and a lack of human contact since going to the office constitutes a social bond that some employees admit to appreciating.

Despite these drawbacks, studies show that employees are rather in favor of partial teleworking, two or three times a week, to maintain the essential balance between family and professional life. In short, for most employees, the advantages linked to teleworking are greater than the disadvantages which result from it. But are companies ready to face it? And you, where are you on the digital side? Our form helps you assess your digital maturity level free.