Now that My Time -- the university web-based time management system -- has become part of the landscape of the University, is it time for a conversation exploring the possibilities of flex-time also becoming part of the picture?
Many years ago, I asked a director about the possibility of flex-time being implemented here during the summer -- four days on three days off -- the answer was, “no.” And, that “it would be impossible to keep track of staff time.” Although there could be a myriad of other reasons that could make the implementation difficult, My Time may have eliminated that roadblock.
My Time is a time keeping system that provides NYU with a system for tracking time worked and time off balances. It also provides employees with online access to vacation, sick and personal time balances. Could My Time possibly make a dream come true?
What is flex-time? It is a variable work schedule, in contrast to a standard 9am to 5pm Monday through Friday schedule. As employees try to find a balance between work and personal obligations, flex-time could possibly be the answer for many. Often, many life events (for example doctors’ appointments, school, childcare, and elder care obligations) cannot be accommodated by a traditional nine to five schedule. Access Services hours of operation lend themselves to accommodating a new paragon for scheduling staff.
What are some of the benefits of flex-time for the employer?
There have been many studies that indicate that flex-time improved job satisfaction, increased productivity and loyalty. Companies who have implemented flex-time have less burned out employees, unplanned absenteeism and a higher retention rate of their top performers.
It may be early in the process to look at other applications for My Time. However, it can never be never too early to start the conversation.
Flex-time studies:
Current Population Survey (CPS) 2004 Workers on Flexible Shift Schedules
National Study of employers (NSE), 2008:
www.familiesandwork.org/site/research/reports/2008nse.pdf
Many years ago, I asked a director about the possibility of flex-time being implemented here during the summer -- four days on three days off -- the answer was, “no.” And, that “it would be impossible to keep track of staff time.” Although there could be a myriad of other reasons that could make the implementation difficult, My Time may have eliminated that roadblock.
My Time is a time keeping system that provides NYU with a system for tracking time worked and time off balances. It also provides employees with online access to vacation, sick and personal time balances. Could My Time possibly make a dream come true?
What is flex-time? It is a variable work schedule, in contrast to a standard 9am to 5pm Monday through Friday schedule. As employees try to find a balance between work and personal obligations, flex-time could possibly be the answer for many. Often, many life events (for example doctors’ appointments, school, childcare, and elder care obligations) cannot be accommodated by a traditional nine to five schedule. Access Services hours of operation lend themselves to accommodating a new paragon for scheduling staff.
What are some of the benefits of flex-time for the employer?
There have been many studies that indicate that flex-time improved job satisfaction, increased productivity and loyalty. Companies who have implemented flex-time have less burned out employees, unplanned absenteeism and a higher retention rate of their top performers.
It may be early in the process to look at other applications for My Time. However, it can never be never too early to start the conversation.
Flex-time studies:
Current Population Survey (CPS) 2004 Workers on Flexible Shift Schedules
National Study of employers (NSE), 2008:
www.familiesandwork.org/site/research/reports/2008nse.pdf
I have talked to co-workers before Pat wrote the blog and although I didn't get a large sample, the few co-workers agreed that they would be all for flex-time. I wonder how can we actually begin the conversation about flex-time.
ReplyDeleteThere has been a big push to use the results from the online surveys that the library conducted over the past few years about trying to incorporate feedback from the staff to improve work life for library staff. I am curious as to how the rest of staff would respond to whether or not they would like to work flexible schedules. Possibly, instead of working 5 days, with two days off, what about working 4 days and longer hours to get 3 days off?
We would certainly have to take coverage into consideration for the public service stations throughout the library, but if other institutions are doing it, then I hope that NYU can get on board.
How can flex-time be put on the table, if it's possible, while working out contractual and administration issues? What time is it? Flex-time!