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4 Employee Experience Trends That Defined 2020 and Are Expected to Play a Huge Role in 2021

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StrategyDriven Managing Your People Article |Employee Experience|4 Employee Experience Trends That Defined 2020 and Are Expected to Play a Huge Role in 2021A whole lot changed in 2020 for everyone. The emergence of a global pandemic has transformed the way we live, interact and work. It has forced many employers to reconceptualize workflows and the minimum number of staff needed to operate. Brand new employee experience trends have emerged, and some of them are showing no signs of losing their grip. Here are some trends that ServiceNow HR expects to have a huge impact in 2021.

1. Working Hours Flexibility

In the past, location has been more of a focal point for employers. But as we move forward in 2021, time is going to be the focus or flexibility. As more and more employees begin to return to in office working, employers will need to offer greater flexibility regarding when employees are expected to work. A 40 hour work week or a 9 to 5 schedule may not be necessary for high performance, productivity and efficiency.

2. Mental Health Support

With all of the separation, and isolation in some cases, that people are experiencing during the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing the mental health of employees cannot be overlooked. The longer this pandemic wears on the more mental health will impact the efficiency and productivity of the workforce. Employers who choose not to address this very serious issue are likely to suffer. Things like extended parental leave and emotional well-being programs will be well received by current employees and even be a priority for potential employees.

3. Workplace Technology

Due to the number of remote workers, employers have had to put some checks and balances in place to monitor the productivity and workflow of employees. Many employees are distrustful of the technology being used to monitor their work. Since remote working and hybrid working are becoming more of the norm, there will need to be some regulations for just how much information is being gathered, how and where it is being stored and who has access to it. We can look forward to state regulations at a minimum about what employee information can and cannot be recorded and how it can be used.

4. Social Stance

Not only do people want to purchase from businesses that espouse their personal beliefs and values, but they also want to work for an employer that is aligned with their values. Most employees are looking for employers to take a position on issues and politics. There is little room for neutrality in this climate, and attempting to remain in the middle may do more harm than good. Whether it’s giving to charities or causes, sponsoring an event or investing in an organization, there are plenty of ways to morally align your business. Undoubtedly, potential employees and even current employees will be watching.

Although 2020 was a history making year of epic proportions, what was put in motion is far from settled and will continue to impact the way we do business for quite some time to come. It’s a good idea to do what you can as an employer to keep up with what’s going on and create an improved employee experience.

Industry Insights: An In-Depth Look Into the 5 Challenges of CNC Machining

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StrategyDriven Tactical Execution Article |CNC Machining|Industry Insights: An In-Depth Look Into the 5 Challenges of CNC MachiningToday, CNC machining is considered one of the most efficient and important way to handle metal fabrication jobs and tasks in modern industry settings. The reason for this is because the technology itself is a combination of rather sophisticated software programming combined with more advanced mechanical engineering, which produces a system that is well known as CNC or computer numerical control.

Even though the use of CNC castings and machining services is efficient, there are some limits to what the machines can do. While this is true, with the right strategy, these challenges can be overcome.

1. Complex Geometry

Something that is generally accepted in this industry is that what a skilled tradesperson may excel at is something that the average CNC machine may struggle with (the opposite is true, as well). For example, it is a show of skill for tradespeople to work metal with a high level of precision, including cutting circular patterns or straight lines -; but these are tasks that are simple for the average CNC machine. Many Custom CNC Machining Services can get these types of jobs done with ease.

However, with more unique patterns, CNC machines may struggle, while a professional can easily handle the job. This refers to a technical limitation. Also, older CNC machines are operated on just two or three axes, while newer machines have a larger range of movement.

2. Data Processing

Because of the mechanical nature of CNC machines, they can operate within the set boundaries of the hardware. However, the performance could be impacted by the software running the machine. Sometimes, the bottleneck for how quickly CNC machines work is the speed that the computer sends the instructions to the device. An upgrade can help overcome this challenge.

3. Higher Costs

The initial financial cost of purchasing a CNC machine is not cheap. This is especially the case for those who are coming in to the industry with no current equipment to make an upgrade from. Getting started with a CNC machine is challenging because of the significant investment that must be made. However, this cost can be offset by the return provided when the machine is in full operation. This is something to keep in mind when getting started in the industry.

4. Costly Repairs

With any CNC machine, things can break down and the repairs can be expensive. CNC machining requires both software and hardware to work efficiently. If there is a breakdown of these systems, it could require a combination of programming and mechanical expertise to get things running.

5. Expertise Loss

In the past, the ability to handle more complex machining tasks required that engineers and artisans to have a good understanding of metallurgy or other subjects. This can have an indirect benefit on any company because now machines are simplifying the process and reducing the skills that the actual worker has. With CNC machining is taking over, it is making things faster and more efficient; however, this is reducing the schooling and expertise that is required by those who are working in this industry.

As anyone can see, there are countless challenges being faced in the CNC machining industry. Knowing what these are is the first step in overcoming them. Keep the information here in mind to ensure the desired results are achieved and that any potential challenges can be overcome in the industry to help ensure that things continue to move smoothly and efficiently.

The Ultimate Guide on How to Boost Production Line Efficiency

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StrategyDriven Tactical Execution Article |Production Line Efficiency|The Ultimate Guide on How to Boost Production Line EfficiencySOPs or standard operating procedures may vary from one company to another. However, the main common goal across industries is to achieve strong production efficiency. SOPs boost production efficiency because they focus on happy customers, strong supply chains, and safe employees.

As a production line manager, you strive to maximize the output without sacrificing quality. Unfortunately, this isn’t always possible. According to a report by Carpedia, most companies use up approximately 50% of their equipment and labor resources.

Tips on How to Improve Production Efficiency

Understanding what you’re making

While it may seem odd that anyone would manage a production line without knowing their product, the fact is that managing a production line doesn’t necessitate fully understanding the final product inside out. However, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take some time to know the product and the production process intimately. When you know what the final product is supposed to achieve, you may be able to identify some parts of the production process that you can alter. For instance, you may find it cheaper to outsource your PCB Assembly tasks.

Effective automation

Replacing your employees with a machine isn’t the wisest choice. For production to be efficient, automation should be effective. As a production line manager, you want a return on investment. Therefore, you should make sure that any machine you invest in doesn’t need constant maintenance or supervision. This will help free up your staff so that they can perform more valuable work that cannot be done by a machine.

Improve on safety

There are several safety risks in factories that use production lines. Therefore, you have to consider the use of heavy equipment and machinery, and the handling of dangerous materials, especially if they’re hazardous. If your employees often deal with electrical items, there could also be a fire risk. As the person in charge, you can make your workplace more efficient by improving your employee safety.

Schedule preventive maintenance

A little maintenance of your production line equipment will go a long way in warding off bigger problems later. Most companies schedule regular checkups for their equipment. However, scheduling maintenance reminders can help your employees to remember when checkups are due.

Train your employees

Employees are the lifeblood of your business, and if you find them inefficient, it may not be their fault. You have to train new employees to adhere to company standards, and when you don’t train them, they will copy those around them, which can lead to errors. You can standardize operating procedures after identifying gaps in your employee skills, knowledge, and processes. Ideally, you should do this before you create a training program.

Bottom Line

Boosting efficiency in your production line is an ongoing process. Therefore, don’t underestimate the value of taking time to understand your product, automation, safety to reduce workplace injuries, and equipment maintenance. Sometimes, it is the small strategic changes that yield the best results.

However, before you make any changes remember to always ask yourself the cost of that solution. . For instance, you can improve production line efficiency by investing in a new multimillion-dollar piece of machinery, but can you solve the problem with a cheaper alternative? Don’t use your business capital unless you have to.

5 Tips Guaranteed to Improve Employee Performance

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StrategyDriven Managing Your People Article |Improve Employee Performance|5 Tips Guaranteed to Improve Employee PerformanceLet’s face the truth – your company’s success depends on your employees’ performance. Even when you are recording peak levels of turnover and maximum motivation, you may not be sure how to harness your employees’ potential. You will need various solutions to flip these dynamics.

Before you act on a particular solution, make sure you understand why your employees are not performing as expected.
Read on to learn some tips you can adopt to improve employee performance in your organization.

1. Set Clear Expectations

Do your employees understand their job descriptions? Communicating the expectations to the employees ensures that they have a clear picture of their assignment. After they are aware of their work, make frequent and clear communication to manage these expectations.

Your employees should describe their objectives freely. Moreover, they should understand their functions and responsibilities at the workplace.

2. Use the Right Tools and Technology

Embracing technology in the workplace is one way to drive engagement and improve performance. However, you should have the right technology and tools to match all the employees’ expectations.

Ensure that the hardware you have in the organization is compatible with your software. For instance, if underperformance in your company is due to the manual processes of making cuts and shapes, you may consider introducing a CNC cutting machine.

A CNC cutting machine can translate computerized information into instructions that a machine can follow easily. Browse this site to learn more about CNC cutting machines.

3. Empower Your Employees

Employee empowerment is a vital aspect of any organization’s performance. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to employee empowerment. The goal of any empowerment practice is to give your employees the power to make high-impact decisions in the organization.

While there are diverse ways you can empower your employees, focus on the one with a higher chance of success. For instance, you can start by providing input on their goals and objectives. Ensure that they have all the resources they would require to improve their performance. Besides, train your employees such that they can do their work without requiring any form of micromanagement.

4. Carry Out Performance Appraisals

Performance appraisals should not scare or pressure the employees to work; instead, they are a necessary tool that influences employees’ performance. Such an exercise gives the employees a complete overview of where they stand on their performance radar.

Regular performance appraisals will help the employees stay focused on the set individual and organization goals. Also, it is necessary to let them know of the significance of such reviews.

5. Improve the Employee Morale

Delighted employees have a high chance of performing well in their work. So, it would help if you took the necessary measures to improve the morale of your employees.

Review the working environment, benefits, salary level, and the knowledge of its mission and vision to ensure that the employees feel satisfied with their job. Employees with a clear understanding that their role is necessary for their employer’s success will always give their best.

To achieve success in your organization, you need to have the right systems, rules, and strategies in place. If you want to improve the performance of your employees, you must include their considerations. Learn why your employees are underperforming and focus on creating conducive environments for success.

4 Adjustments that Can Significantly Reduce Company Expenses

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StrategyDriven Managing Your Finances Article |Reduce Expenses|4 Adjustments that Can Significantly Reduce Company ExpensesMost companies make a substantial amount of money, but the high costs of running the business use up most of the finances making the venture not profitable. To maximize profits, cut down the expenses as much as you can without compromising business operations. Here are ways to help your business make more savings

Check Your Energy Consumption

As professionals from Olympia Lighting will inform you, energy costs can be managed or reduced by LED lighting. It’s easier to maintain, doesn’t use as much power (uses 75% less than traditional lighting systems), and is echo friendly.

Additionally, install solar panels in your facility to power LED street light fixtures and other appliances. Invest in smart lighting systems and ensure offices get enough natural light, which minimizes electricity use during the day. Also, make sure your devices are energy efficient, well maintained, and perform effectively. Faulty and old machines need more energy to power them. Always go for the eco-friendly options in the market when making a new purchase.

Modernize Your Marketing Techniques

Although it pays to stick to what works for your business, use the power of referral more than traditional marketing. Referrals tend to become loyal customers and refer more clients. Also, leverage your company’s social media platforms.

Engage with clients, give your business a recognizable face, and network more. Let your customers know about new offers, products, and discounts and at the same time have details of your products on all your social media platforms. Also, respond to customer inquiries on time.

Use every mode of communication with the clients as a marketing platform. Give details of the offers or new products you have on follow-up emails, invoices, and quotes.

Focus on Quality

When you offer customers quality products or services, you build trust, and they depend on your services. When goods or products are faulty, customers have to return them for replacements. It cost the company more money to issue replacements, make shipments, and it wastes time. Quality supplies, although costing more, don’t frustrate your efforts. You can also confidently charge more when offering quality products.

Keep Reviewing the Supply Costs

Are your supplies giving you the best deals? Regularly check the market prices for your supplies and negotiate a better offer with your vendor or shift base. Also, check what big suppliers are offering. Most are cheaper than smaller companies because they produce in bulk, although you don’t get to build a personal relationship with them.

Make Maximum Use of Your Space

Do you have a large space that’s underutilized? Consider leasing or crafting better ways of using it. For instance, you don’t have to invest in separate dining, meeting, and relaxing areas for the employees but consolidate all these needs into one space. Also, don’t stock more than you need for a month or two. Digitize your operations, which means less paperwork and filing systems. If you have equipment that you use seasonally, consider leasing it out when not in use.
Small adjustments can significantly lower your expenditure, resulting in more profits.