Towards A Balanced Flexibility: An Attractive Workplace

Dr. Michael Whittall Technische Universität München- Germany

Technische Universität München

Dr. Michael Whittall – Technische Universität München

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Structure

• The Lisbon strategy and an attractive workplace

• In-depth look at two case studies

• Summary

Technische Universität München

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Attractive workplace• The Lisbon message

– 3% sustainable economic growth rate

– “More and better jobs”

– “More workers working more productively”

• European Foundation project – Six orientations

– Seven member states

– 15 case studies (per country)

• Orientation 5: Towards a balanced flexibility – “Good flexible working time practices”

Technische Universität München

Dr. Michael Whittall – Technische Universität München

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Case studies Technische Universität München

Dr. Michael Whittall – Technische Universität München

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• Renowned publishing house – Family owned German company

– 200 employers in Germany (60% women) – 60 academic journals

• Challenge: Original flexitime model – Start 7-9 am

– Finish no earlier than 15.30

– High overtime levels

– Disciplinary and moral problems

– Productivity problem

Technische Universität München

Dr. Michael Whittall – Technische Universität München

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• Solution: Trust working-time-model 2004– No management control over working time

– Introduction of team “service times” (09.30-15.30)– Voluntary (70% initial opt-in)

• Benefits – 90% support of agreement today

– Reduction in stress related illness

– Motivated workforce

– Improved team work

Technische Universität München

Dr. Michael Whittall – Technische Universität München

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• Global telecommunications operator – Operates in 170 countries

– Over 100.000 employees worldwide (22% women)

– £22 billion turnover 2007

• Challenge: Attracting and retaining employees– Ageing workforce

– Contracting labour market

Technische Universität München

Dr. Michael Whittall – Technische Universität München

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• Solution: Flexible working time practices– Compressed hours – Job sharing– Accrual of hours– Annualised hours– Teleworking

• Benefits– 75% of employees covered by some form of flexible working time

practice – Increased productivity (15-30% for teleworkers)– Greater job satisfaction – Cost reduction (i.e. earlier return from maternity leave)– Environmentally friendly

Technische Universität München

Dr. Michael Whittall – Technische Universität München

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Summary• Win-win situation

• Legitimacy through negotiation

• Technology requirements (Intranet advice portal)

• Trust

• Redefining managerial control

Technische Universität München

Dr. Michael Whittall – Technische Universität München