One of the issues I have with the definition of a networked worker is that including email as part of the criteria this involves the majority of white collared workers as networked workers. However, more importantly, a networked worker should be defined by the amount of time they are connected. More importantly, the time a worker uses the internet for things in addition to email should be highly valued.
Much of what I have been reading various articles is that it can be concluded that the networked worker created an increase in productivity. In an article from Mother Jones (http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2011/06/speedup-americans-working-harder-charts), in the United States over the last 30 years, productivity has grown. Logically this can be attributed to the growth of technology both in and out of the workplace. It is interesting to read about how workers waste time checking emails and instant message throughout the day both personal and professional based. However, just as I used to tell teachers about technology in the classroom being not the issues to student distraction, so is the case with technology in the workplace. Before technology distraction was still present, just like in schools students wrote notes, slept or daydreamed before random internet searches, instant messaging, and checking emails.
"...a networked worker should be defined by the amount of time they are connected."
ReplyDeleteWendy, a very insightful point! I almost dropped Madden's article this year, as it is getting dated - though I think it still provides useful context.
I also think your point gets at the blurring of lines between "work" and "non-work" - and almost the silliness of trying to "control" that. With access to the web, people have access to work and to non-work 24/7. How do leaders (1) make sure mission-critical work gets done (whenever) and (2) make sure workers have a healthy work-life balance (however that is currently defined).
These are interesting times for leaders!
Wendy, your comment regarding the underlying assumption of email is spot on! I served on an advisory board that wanted to increase access to online business resources (templates for employee handbooks, lesson plans, sample budgets) for early childhood professionals who were child care directors or owners. I felt like a very small voice because I knew based on my experience and work that very few programs utilized the web and that directors routinely checked email. The rest of the group had a very difficult time wrapping their heads around the thought that everyone didn't have or checked email. It is still a challenge but, we are working on getting directors to trust web based content and sign up online by helping them create an email.
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