Only 40% agree workplace tech supports productivity

Only four out of every 10 employees feel that their organisation’s technology supports their productivity

Based on extensive experience working with local government organisations, this article explores how technology and systems impact employee productivity. While the insights are drawn from local government, the challenges and recommendations outlined can be applied to organisations in various industries. Using insights from Insync’s Alignment and Engagement Survey (AES), we examine trends in employee sentiment regarding organisational technology and processes. We also highlight common challenges employees face and provide practical recommendations for improving perceptions and functionality of workplace systems.

Measuring employee sentiment with Insync’s Alignment and Engagement Survey

At Insync, we use our AES to measure employee sentiment. Our survey is both academically and statistically validated, drawing on a wealth of contemporary and foundational academic literature in the areas of alignment and engagement, as well as their correlation with organisational high performance.

Investment in systems: A key driver of organisational performance

One of the seven factors that comprise alignment is Investment in Systems. This factor assesses the extent to which employees believe their organisation’s systems and processes help them perform their jobs effectively. It also evaluates whether IT and systems concerns are addressed appropriately.

We include Investment in Systems in our survey framework because research consistently shows a strong link between organisational performance and the quality of systems and processes in place. When systems function effectively, employees become more productive, collaborative, and aligned.

How do local government employees perceive technology and systems?

Employee perceptions of organisational technology

The following graph illustrates the percentage of respondents who agreed or strongly agreed with the statement: “The technology provided by our organisation allows me to be as productive as possible.”

• Employee perceptions improved significantly, rising from 49% to 56% in 2020, likely due to the rapid shift to remote work during COVID-19.
• The results stabilised over the next two years (2021 and 2022) before sharply declining to 42% in 2023, where they have remained up to the end of 2024.
• Therefore, only four out of every 10 employees feel that their organisation’s technology supports their productivity.

Number of responses – 16,885

Employee perceptions of organisational systems and processes

The second graph depicts the percentage of respondents who agreed or strongly agreed with the statement: “Our systems and processes allow me to be as productive as possible.”

• The trend closely mirrors the previous graph, with favourable responses increasing from 39% to 44% in 2020 and peaking at 47% in 2022.
• After 2022, perceptions declined sharply, dropping to 37% in 2024.

Number of responses – 21,379

Common employee concerns about systems and processes

Anecdotally, we have found that as workloads increase, employees become more aware of inefficiencies in technology, systems, and processes. Additionally, in many of our recent local government studies, an increasing number of respondents have expressed concerns about excessive workloads through free-text survey responses.

Most of the complaints about systems fall into one of the following categories:

• Outdated systems – Many employees report working with slow, legacy systems that are not user-friendly and struggle to keep up with modern demands.
• Lack of integration – Disconnected systems require employees to enter the same data multiple times, resulting in inefficiencies and frustration.
• Poor user experience – Complex interfaces and non-intuitive software make it difficult for employees to use systems effectively without extensive training.

Even with the implementation of highly optimised systems, survey results may not always reflect their full potential due to initial challenges. In free-text responses, we typically see factors such as inadequate training, limited consultation with employees, and low awareness contributing to these early issues.

Recommendations to improve perceptions of systems and processes

1. Streamline processes

In most instances, addressing technology concerns can be an expensive and drawn-out exercise. However, there is always room for councils to work on optimising and streamlining processes. We recommend that management take a collaborative approach, involving staff in initiating any actions and adopting a ‘do with me’ rather than a ‘do for me’ approach.

2. Embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to make quick productivity gains. It is essential to carry out due diligence. Still, there is little doubt that now, not tomorrow, is the time to embrace AI and consider how it can be integrated into everyday operations to improve productivity and customer experience.

3. Foster high levels of employee involvement

• Involve staff in the design or selection of new systems to ensure they meet the needs of end-users.
• Conduct regular feedback sessions or surveys to gauge staff satisfaction and gather suggestions for improvement.

4. Provide comprehensive training and support

• Offer both initial and ongoing training for staff to ensure they are confident and capable of using new systems and platforms.
• Provide easily accessible resources such as user manuals, online tutorials, or dedicated support staff.

5. Increase communication and transparency

• Regularly update employees on system changes, improvements, and their benefits through internal newsletters, town hall meetings, or intranet posts.
• Be transparent about the challenges faced during implementation and the steps taken to address them.

6. Support older employees in adapting to new technology

• Pair less tech-savvy employees with more experienced colleagues who can offer guidance and answer questions. This mentorship approach builds confidence and fosters smoother adaptation to new systems.
• Encourage open communication channels where employees feel comfortable seeking support without fear of judgment or embarrassment.

Optimising systems and processes is crucial for enhancing employee productivity and engagement, particularly in local government organisations. By streamlining operations, embracing new technologies such as AI, and fostering employee engagement, councils can significantly enhance their workplace efficiency.

Take action today

Is your council planning to implement a new technology platform or enhance existing ones to boost productivity? Begin by assessing your current employee experience in relation to systems and performance. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to our friendly team to discover how we can assist you.

Key Experts