A national study conducted for US work/life solutions business Xylo, Inc. says that employees who use the Web at work claim they are more productive, do better work, and feel happier and less stressed.
The survey was conducted for Xylo Inc., who commissioned Wirthlin Worldwide to survey more than 1000 U.S. adults during the period of August 4 - 7, 2000. The survey participants were asked about their use of the Internet at work, their company's policies on Internet usage, and the impact on their job performance and work environment.
Of those employees who use the Internet at work, an overwhelming 86 percent report that using the Web at work has no negative impact on their jobs and nearly half, 46 percent, assert that the Internet helps them to be more productive. The study also found a correlation between the amount of Web usage and productivity. Of the employees who use the Internet at work each day, 74 percent are more likely to report increases in productivity. Those employees (64 percent), whose companies have very lenient Internet usage policies, also report that using the Internet at work helps them get more work done.
When the Internet is used for personal reasons at work, more than half, 56 percent, of the employees claim it has a positive impact. Twenty-eight percent declare improvements in the quality of their work, while another 28 percent attribute Internet usage to making them happier or less stressed.
The results of the survey are not surprising to Xylo President and CEO Norman Behar. "When companies allow employees to spend a few moments online each day to handle personal issues, such as making dinner reservations, planning a trip or selecting a last minute gift, these employees are able to better balance the demands of their work and home lives," he said. "When employees feel their employers are supportive of a balanced work and home life, they tend to become more productive, loyal and committed to their company. This provides a powerful competitive advantage in attracting and retaining employees."
