This infographic breaks down the concept of the eight hour work day. Created by Podio, 'Do We Have To Work 8 Hours Per Day?' examines where the idea came from, why it does not work and the best pattern for working.
The eight hour work day was established in 1926 by Henry Ford as a response to horrible working conditions during the British Industrial Revolution and the work of reformist Robert Owen. While it increased productivity and profit margins at the time, the schedule no longer works with modern lifestyles and practices. Employees are encouraged to be busy (which isn't the same as productive), leading to a cycle of exhaustion, poor engagement, reduced productivity, stress and frustration.
The infographic offers several solutions so you can work smarter.
What's Driving This Trend
- Flexible Work Schedules
- Explore opportunities for implementing flexible work schedules to improve productivity and employee satisfaction.
- Productivity Patterns
- Examine alternative productivity patterns that go beyond the traditional eight-hour work day.
- Work-life Balance
- Address the need for work-life balance by reevaluating the concept of the standard work day.
Who This Affects Most
- Human Resources
- Leverage innovative work schedule trends to attract and retain top talent in the HR industry.
- Technology
- Develop technology solutions that enable remote work and flexible scheduling options.
- Wellness
- Create wellness programs and services that promote work-life balance and employee well-being.
