Some Impacts Of Covid-19

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic is changing the way we live (including work), ie
"...We have all experienced: increased complexity of work, diminishing command and control, loosening of rigid hierarchical structures, the virtual world of work, and the unprecedented acceleration of digitalisation and technology to every part of our life..."
Bhawna Gandhi, 2021

Both the pandemic and technological changes are overhauling and reimagining the concept of workplace.

There are 3 key actions:

i) embracing a hybrid/blended work model, ie more flexible work arrangements with the office being less important, use of technology, eg communications, etc

ii) revamping physical workspace, ie need less office space and more meeting facilities

iii) managing staff needs, ie need to ingrain change as part of the organisational DNA, ie it is a core competency; failure to handle staff needs can have a negative impact on performance, like productivity, staff turnover, engagement; need to have the appropriate technological capabilities to handle flexible working arrangements, more balanced lifestyle, upgrading particular skills, handling parental responsibilities, career development, etc; need to
"...Prioritise identifying risk factors that are becoming roadblocks to change implementation, and take early steps to mitigate those risks. Skill development programs should be created and implemented at all levels to boost employee productivity and competency while also fostering an environment that encourages a holistic approach to change..."
ManageHR, 2021b

Linked with this is a need to build change management capabilities at all organisational levels, ie it is seen as a requirement rather than an option; for example, the concept of agile (for more detail, see elsewhere in the Knowledge Base). Also, change management continues its integration with project management. Using suitable methodologies, change management can help get everyone on the same page.

The use of technologies, like AI, is taking the guesswork out of planning, monitoring and evaluating performance, etc. Additionally,
"...The workplace of the future will be more diverse, fuelled by increasing globalisation, shifting parental roles, an ageing workforce, and changing attitudes towards sexual and gender identity..."
Alex Gonsalves, 2021

NB Need to assess current market trends and your organisation's readiness to accept them. This includes government policy, shifting demographic patterns, new technologies, competitors actions, etc. Performance also needs to be monitored regularly.

How to Handle Self-isolation that came with COVID

(source: https://infograph.venngage.com)