Utiliscan Case

The following report provides an analysis of the employee survey results and a conceptual plan for Utiliscan to successfully use their employee survey results in planning and implementing a positive organizational change in an economically feasible manner. By using the employee survey data, Utiliscan sends an important message to the employees that their opinion is valued and respected. It also provides an opportunity for employees to buy into the changes the organization's leadership is attempting to implement. Timing is also critical, it's essential to take action while the "iron is hot" and the results are fresh in the minds of the employees. It's not realistic to think that all employee concerns can be addressed overnight but rather prioritize and focus on targeted areas. It is recommended that at least one of the focus areas selected be amenable to observable, positive change within three or four months. It's important to demonstrate to employees that management listens to their input and takes definitive action. Some focus areas will take a year or more for change to be achieved or to show significant strides. That is fine. Often organizational problems are complex and require a series of integrated solutions. For these areas, plan how to show at least some progress or incremental change within a few months.1

Workplace flexibility is a low-cost initiative with high returns. A recent report by the Families and Work Institute and SHRM revealed that workplace flexibility has a positive impact on employees' work-life experiences. These low-cost initiatives can lead to increased employee job satisfaction, lower turnover and lower insurance costs.2

1 http://www.mspb.gov/netsearch/viewdocs.aspx?docnumber=679131&version=681176&application=ACROBAT

2 http://www.shrm.org/Research/SurveyFindings/Articles/Documents/2012_EmpBenefits_Report.pdf

* 78% of the employees were satisfied with their working conditions and they enjoyed freedom and flexibility to perform their jobs without strict supervision

* 70% felt their workloads were adequate - not too heavy, not too light

Given that a high percentage of employees are happy currently with their work flexibility the recommendation is to continue with the current programs in place and perhaps look into expanding more opportunities for flexible work such as:

* Choices in managing time: includes control over one's schedule and agreeing that the schedule or shift meets the employee's needs.

* Flex time and flex place: includes traditional flexibility, daily flexibility (short notice schedule changes), compressed workweeks and working at home.

* Reduced time: includes full-timers who could arrange to work part time in their current position and part-timers who could arrange