Remote workers are disproportionately affected by the use of multiple tech tools compared with their office-based counterparts, according to research by HR solutions provider Applaud.
The study of UK employees revealed that 77% of remote workers are required to utilise up to five distinct HR technology tools. In comparison, 69% of office-based employees and hybrid workers face a similar demand.
The survey also found that the effects of poor technologies and workflow congestion cause nearly half (48%) of remote workers to feel frustration in their roles. In fact, 25% of remote workers said that poor, burdensome technologies gave the impression that their employer is not innovative.
Commenting on the findings, Ivan Harding, CEO and co-founder of Applaud, said: “At a time when employers are seeking to recruit and retain top talent, a culture of innovation is critical.
“When it is remote workers that suffer the biggest burden of poor technology, we can see that current tech strategies are flying in the face of innovative HR. Not only that, but the experience gap for remote versus hybrid and office workers is not acceptable.”
Nearly one in 10 (9%) of remote workers said they had considered quitting due to technology issues – but the figure rose to 15% for hybrid workers and 13% for office-based employees.
Over 45% of workers reported losing between 16 to 30 minutes per week – equivalent to 25.5 working hours annually – due to inefficient HR tech tools causing workflow problems.
Harding added: “Businesses need to level the playing field and provide seamless experiences that enhance working life, not add unnecessary frustration.”
