Improve work productivity: Tips and benefits

Work productivity is a measure of the efficiency with which tasks are performed and objectives are achieved in an organization. We are talking about a key factor for the success and competitiveness of any company. Also, work productivity directly influences the optimization of resources, the reduction of costs and the increase in customer and worker satisfaction. 

Now, not everything is so easy. Achieving high labour productivity can be a complex process, since it depends not only on internal factors but also on external elements. In this context, it is important to know what these factors are and how they can be optimally managed to improve work productivity. Keep reading what we tell you! 

Factors that influence work productivity 

As we told you, achieving productivity depends on several factors. These can be classified into two large groups: individual and organizational. Individual factors are those that depend on the characteristics, skills, attitudes and behaviours of each worker. For example:  

• Training: the level of knowledge, skills and abilities that the worker has to perform his or her job. 
• Motivation: the degree of interest, commitment and satisfaction that the worker has with his or her job and with the organization. 
• Health: the physical and mental state of the worker, which can affect their energy, concentration and well-being. 
• Personality: the set of traits, values ​​and preferences that define the character and work style of the worker. 

Meanwhile, organizational factors are those that depend on the structure, culture, climate and processes of the organization. Below, we mention some:  

• Leadership: the style, communication and influence that the leader exercises on the work team.
• Teamwork: the degree of collaboration, coordination and trust that exists between members of the work team. 
• The work environment: the physical, technical and environmental conditions of the workplace, which can affect the comfort, safety and health of workers. 
• Technology: the level of equipment, tools and systems that facilitate the development of work. 

Techniques to improve work productivity 

At this point, you are probably wondering how to improve work productivity. If so, we tell you that there are techniques that allow you to optimize the individual and organizational factors that we mentioned before. Take note! 

• Continuous training so that workers have the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to adapt to changes and market demands. 
• Performance evaluation that allows measuring and evaluating the performance of workers. 
• Participation and involvement to promote communication, collaboration and proactivity among workers. In this sense, it is important to involve them in the decisions and results of the organization. 
• Flexibility and conciliation, that is, each employee has options for hours, places and ways of working that adapt to their needs and preferences. 

How to measure labour productivity? 

Measuring labour productivity is of great importance for organizations as it allows them to verify whether established objectives and expectations are met and whether quality and safety standards are respected. In addition, it is a good way to know how the company is compared to the competition, while at the same time, it is useful to detect deviations, errors and problems that affect work productivity, and apply appropriate corrective measures. 

To measure labour productivity, different indicators can be used, such as: 

• Production: the quantity and quality of goods or services that are generated in a given period of time. 

• Time: the duration used to carry out a task or process. 

• Cost: the value of the resources that are used or consumed in carrying out a task or process. 

• Satisfaction: the degree of compliance and loyalty of customers and workers with the product or service offered. 

Advantages of measuring labour productivity 

Overall, measuring work productivity not only provides valuable information for improving business performance, but can also contribute to a healthier work environment and an organization’s ability to remain competitive in an ever-changing business environment. These are some of the advantages:  

• Increase profitability: By optimizing resources, reducing costs and improving quality, the organization’s revenue and profits are increased. 

• Improve competitiveness: if you offer a product or service with greater added value, you differentiate yourself from the competition and attract and retain customers. 

• Promote innovation: creativity, collaboration and adaptation to change are key to generating new ideas, solutions and business opportunities. 

• Promote motivation: a team that is recognized for its efforts and achievements will be much more committed and satisfied.