Understanding the relationship between QWL and Productivity
To understand how the quality of life at work affects productivity, let's first look at both concepts individually. According toInternational Labour Organization (ILO), QWL is based on six fundamental dimensions:
- Physical and mental health,
- Skills and development,
- The commitment,
- Participatory leadership and management,
- The environment and
- Positive social relationships.
As for productivity, it corresponds to the ability to complete tasks with an efficient allocation of available resources. By integrating these elements, it is possible to design a virtuous circle: a high QWL leading to increased productivity, and vice versa. This synergy promotes the overall well-being of employees, which has a direct impact on business growth and profitability.
What are the key QWL factors that positively influence productivity?
Several aspects of QWL have been linked to productivity. These include:
- Recognition. When employees receive fair recognition for their contributions, they are more likely to demonstrate a sense of belonging and motivation, which fuels their involvement and hard work. Studies have shown that recognition increases employee productivity by 10% (Universum Global, 2019).
- Work-life balance. Ensuring a harmonious balance between family and professional obligations preserves the psychological health of employees and limits the risks of burnout. At the same time, flexible hours offer the possibility of adjusting work schedules according to personal constraints, resulting in optimized productivity. According to a study conducted by Stanford University, remote workers perform 13% more tasks than their colleagues in a fixed position (Bloom, 2015).
- Work environment. Opting for ergonomic, bright, spacious premises adapted to various working styles maximizes employee comfort, reduces absences for health reasons and promotes collaboration. Numerous studies point to the significant impact of the office environment on concentration, creativity and overall productivity (Kim & de Dear, 2013; Sundstrom, 1986
Concrete illustrations showing the impact of QWL on productivity
Below, let's illustrate the positive influence of QWL on productivity through concrete examples:
- google. The American giant has established a collective intelligence policy called” Objectives and Key Results ” (OKR), consisting in setting ambitious goals with quantifiable criteria for measuring performance. Combined with a flexible framework, this initiative has significantly increased productivity and employee satisfaction.
- Microsoft Japan. As an experiment, Microsoft Japan tested a work week shortened to four days, or 75% of the usual hours. Consequently, the Productivity jumped by 40%, while operational costs have fallen (less paper, electricity and transport).
- BT Group. This British group has introduced training programs to make managers aware of the importance of QWL. These initiatives have resulted in a 10% increase in production and a 15% increase in employee satisfaction, according to a study conducted by Investors in People (IIP UK Flexible Working Report, 2016).
Best practices
Based on the evidence presented, let's try to summarize recommendations that human resources managers and managers can use:
- Set up a corporate culture valuing recognition and gratitude.
- Support the adoption of flexible hours and encourage remote work where appropriate.
- Invest in a work environment that is conducive to collaboration and creativity.
- Organize constructive feedback sessions between peers and hierarchies, in order to identify levers for continuous improvement in QWL and productivity.
- Suggest team building activities and social events to boost interactions and strengthen internal relationships.
A more productive future thanks to QWL.
There is indeed a solid link between quality of life at work and productivity, as attested by multiple studies and concrete examples from globally recognized firms. It should therefore be emphasized that focusing on QWL represents a wise investment for both employees and businesses. In the end, everyone benefits: a happy and productive workforce, substantial gains in loyalty and brand image, and a society in which to live and work.
