These Professionals Are Excited About the Rise of Workplace Robots A recent study reveals how new technologies can boost employee productivity.
By Rose Leadem
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
While many people fear that the rise of robots will impact their jobs, HR professionals think advances in robotics and automation technology will actually be beneficial to employees and companies.
A recent study, "Workplace of the Future," conducted by research firm Future Workplace and tech company Konica Minolta, surveyed 619 human resource professionals. Most agreed that automation technologies will increase employee productivity, engagement and collaboration.
Related: 3 Reasons HR Needs to Be Involved in Planning a Business's Strategy
Not only that, but these professionals believe that smart tech will improv HR processes and provide for better communication around the office. Whether at a large corporation or a small startup, HR professionals say there are a number of benefits for companies creating "smart offices."
Increased productivity
Over three-quarters of human resource respondents agreed that work is not where you are, but rather what you get done. To boost productivity and help employees get more done, HR professionals believe installing automation and smart technology can help. In fact, 41 percent consider that outcome to be the most worthy of investing in new technology.
Streamlined HR processes
Over a third of surveyed HR professionals say that custom mobile apps will help them develop more efficient HR practices, and one-third have already started using them.
Often in small businesses, a human resource department is not a priority. Being able to incorporate mobile tools can strengthen a small business's human resources to make up for any shortcomings in that area.
A way to attract talent and improve operations
From creating a state-of-the-art office to seeking tools that support growth, a company's reason for investing in smart technology varies. Overall, 39 percent of surveyed HR professionals say their motivation to invest in high-tech is to attract top talent and improve business operations.
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Small businesses that employ smart technology will not only make themselves more attractive to prospective recruits, but will help to assist their human resources and business processes. These technologies let them compete at the same level of bigger companies in the industry when it comes to appealing to top talent.
Better communication
Although a majority of HR professionals say their companies already employ video conferencing and conference room booking software, 22 percent of respondents admit that more advanced video conferencing tools would be beneficial both internally and externally. They also admit that tools for wireless streaming (23 percent) would also have a positive potential impact on the productivity of employees.
Reduced costs
Although upfront costs on new smart technologies can often be high, they reap many benefits. Forty-two percent of HR professionals find that automation will result in at least a 10 percent reduction in required headcount over the next three years. In turn, that means a lot less work for human resources and hiring departments.
