The result of the experiment was a 40% increase in productivity. They achieved this through;
- Shortening meetings to a 30 minute time limit
- Encouraging remote communication
An experiment at Microsoft's division in Japan went like this: Employees worked 4 days a week, enjoyed a 3-day weekend — and got their normal, 5-day paycheck.
The result?
A productivity boost of 40%, the company says.https://t.co/zZBiuVO4gG— NPR (@NPR) November 5, 2019
But this isn't the first time the four-day workweek topic has been raised. Before the Great Depression in America, 30-hour work weeks were the norm before more hours equated to more pay.It has been suggested by environmentalists that four-day workweek could help in the curbing of climate change. As workers consume less resources during their commutes.The point of the experiment was to promote a healthier work-life balance as Japan has a tendency to overwork its people.Microsoft isn't the first company to try this. In 2018, a New Zealand company called Perpetual Guardians opted to implement the four-day workweek while paying its employees wages. The results of the policy were a boost in work-life balance and lower stress levels. Even Virgin founder Richard Branson outlines the merit that it boosts happiness.What are your thoughts? Is it time for a four-day work week?Our company also operates on a 4-day work week and I've seen an increase in not only morale, but productivity.
Work life balance creates a healthy environment for both work and home life.I hope more companies adopt this ? https://t.co/7JqTZfqYN9— ℳ (@MichellePhan) November 4, 2019