Complex IT systems decrease productivity in UK workplaces

Research by Workspace 365 indicates that overcomplicated IT systems are causing frustration and reduced productivity among UK employees.

The study surveyed 1,000 UK workers employed in organisations with more than 250 people and revealed that 59% would consider leaving their job if the internal IT systems were perceived as too complex. The data also showed a strong desire for simplified digital workplaces, with the same percentage of employees stating this should be a priority for their company's tech investments.

Many employees do not fully utilise the technological resources available to them. Nearly four in ten (39%) admit to not using the programmes that have been invested in by their employers. Concurrently, 23% of respondents expressed a need for more training to maximise the use of their digital tools.

Erik Nicolai, CEO and Co-founder of Workspace 365, commented on these findings, "There is a strong appetite for change in workplace technology. This isn't just a productivity issue – it's a critical challenge for talent retention." 

He further said, "By simplifying the digital workplace and focusing on user-friendly solutions, business can unlock the full potential of their workforce and bring the focus back to high value tasks."

Hybrid workers were notably keen on simplified technology, with 34% of respondents suggesting that IT investment should better support remote and hybrid work arrangements. However, 32% of remote workers identified the burden of using multiple apps and programmes as their foremost challenge.

Inefficient communication due to switching between various platforms was another issue for 31% of hybrid employees. This problem was more pronounced among younger workers (aged 18-24), where 37% reported such inefficiencies, in contrast with 22% of those aged 45-54.

Receiving excessive notifications was highlighted as a disruptive factor for 24% of hybrid workers, although this issue appeared less significant for those over 55, with only 19% reporting it as problematic.

The research identified sector-specific challenges. In the legal sector, 29% of employees noted that many software features are irrelevant to their roles. Only 57% were utilising the full range of tools available, and just 14% felt their technology simplified tasks, compared to 45% in professional sectors like sales and marketing.

Similarly, 57% of hybrid workers in law experienced distractions from multiple platforms, and 50% struggled with needing to use a variety of applications. Furthermore, 43% wanted the ability to access digital workplaces from any device without losing functionality.

In healthcare, a need for centralised access to applications and tools was cited by 56% of professionals, who believe this change could allow more patient-facing time. HR professionals heavily favour technology that aids productivity, with 76% ranking it as a top priority for IT investment, and 40% focusing on remote worker support.

The study also noted the rise of generative AI among younger employees. Almost 38% of those aged 24-35 reported using personal tech tools like ChatGPT for work, raising concerns about data security.

Nicolai concluded, "The fact that people are using their own tech and would consider leaving a job because of complicated IT systems underscores a critical HR and retention issue for organisations struggling to balance tech adoption with user experience. By prioritising employee-centric, streamlined solutions that simplify the digital employee experience, businesses can foster a more supportive and secure work environment for all." 

"With the majority of employees now calling for more straightforward technology, organisations are urged to take these insights into consideration for future tech strategies."