The WFC Group Blog

istock.com/PeopleImages

The Cloud is alive and well in 2017 - and that should come as no surprise. We included the increasing normality of Cloud adoption in our workforce predictions for the new year without any hesitation, and new data about 2016 only strengthens our position. We're well versed in the ROI cloud-based systems like Kronos Workforce Central can provide (especially as a proud accredited partner), and these benefits have businesses of all sizes acclimating to the idea of change.

The tighter market for skilled workers is resulting in some interesting changes. One such change - and one of the top trends we're keeping an eye on in 2017 - is the boomerang workforce. These are employees looking to return to a former employer after choosing to take a job elsewhere. While the trend is ongoing, observed in an earlier study by Kronos in 2015, we expect the impact to play an increasingly important role in workforce management.

The conversation around wearable tech is still very much alive, though more of a cautious whisper. A lot is happening behind the scenes, and there's plenty of speculation around what new advances will be made to integrate new technological advantages into our work and daily lives. What's clear is the next evolution of compact, personal gadgets is not far off, so it's worth considering the implications they'll have for your workplace sooner rather than later.

If only one-third of your workforce could be considered “engaged,” would you be worried?

Turns out, that’s the national average according to Gallup’s latest report: State of the American Workplace. In it, Gallup claims we’re in the midst of an employee engagement crisis. That stands to reason, because when two-thirds of any employee-base is disengaged or indifferent, then productivity and profitability suffer. Striving for better employee engagement can have measurable benefits for every business. But where should you begin?

Our workforce at The WFC Group is entirely remote. While we recognize the challenges that come with a modern, technology-centered dynamic of working remotely, we consider the structure a benefit to our valuable employees and an asset to our company as a whole.

Outsourcing has become nearly synonymous with IT and technology. As our reliance on the cloud and Internet connections grows, so does our openness to flexible or contractor hires. For years, among the most popular workforce trends are virtual work environments and the Gig Economy, in which workers are hired on a per-project or one-off basis.

Technology is an ever-changing tool, and with 2017 around the corner, we always like to take some time to understand the trends in the new year. Our expectation for workforce management trends in 2017 reflects the intersection of changing technology and the human touch.

As mobile and communication technology develops alongside employer desires for efficiency and cost-cutting measures, the demand for a remote workforce continues to gain popularity. In addition, Millennials rising in leadership insist on work-life balance and flexible work hours, knowing they can provide high-quality work from nearly anywhere. 

Gone are the days when only select employees in management carry a phone or pager, issued by their employers. These days, everyone has a smart phone at his or her side nearly every moment — and, sometimes, a second or third mobile device as well (even wearable technology!).