The results are here – Microsoft Japan shortening the workweek has gained a 40% increase in productivity, more efficiency in work and happier employees.
Nowhere more than Japan the weight of outstretched working hours is felt. According to a report in 2016, almost a quarter of all Japanese companies required employees to work more than 80 hours of overtime, and that’s just in a month!
Striving to combat this overwork culture, Microsoft Japan in August last year undertook an experiment “Work Life Choice Challenge” wherein 2,300 of its employees were given three-day weekends for five weeks straight. The aim was to increase their efficiency and return to work refreshed on Monday. The experiment also included self-development and family wellness schemes.
After collecting and analyzing stacks of data, Microsoft has finally announced the results have been highly positive from shortening the workweek.
Here’s a mini breakdown of the outcome:
- Measured by sales per employee, productivity has increased by 39.9% from August 2018 to August 2019.
- 58.7% fewer pages were printed.
- 23.1% electricity was utilized, and
- a huge majority of 98.1% employees were satisfied with the 4-day workweek regime.
For a country dealing with excessive work load and working hours, the reduction was a decision well made for both the employees and the company.
Microsoft Japan is already planning to bring back the three-day working routine this winter, now focusing on encouraging greater work flexibility.
