According to a Ceridian Corporation report, many businesses support and use flexible scheduling arrangements. The University of North Texas is one example of an organization that supports flexible scheduling across multiple departments.
Flexible work arrangements
Flexible work arrangements take different forms. Examples of flexible scheduling or work arrangements may include:
- Flex time – working longer hours or extra days to make up for scheduled time off.
- Flexibility in scheduling so employees work different hours on different days, like modifying start or end times from the company's regular schedule.
- Staggering hours or scheduling work on a non-traditional schedule, such as ensuring around-the-clock coverage with shifts like 7 AM–3 PM, 9 AM–6 PM, 3 PM–11 PM, or 11 PM–7 AM.
- Compressing the work week so employees work three 12-hour days with four days off, four 10-hour days to get three days off, or four 9-hour days to get a half day off.
- Telecommuting, where employees have the option to work from home some or all of the time.
Job Satisfaction – an Important Factor in Employee Productivity
Companies that invest in employee compensation and benefits often see higher productivity and lower turnover because satisfied employees perform better. Experts and business observers consistently note that flexibility can boost productivity and morale.
Offering a range of benefits—such as health options and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)—is one way employers support employees' work-life balance and reduce stress.
How employers benefit from flexible scheduling
Employers often gain tangible advantages from flexible scheduling policies, including financial and operational improvements.
- Lower employee absenteeism for health or personal appointments.
- Reduced turnover and associated hiring costs.
- Less need to pay overtime or grant comp time for extra work.
- Higher productivity, greater employee loyalty, and lower stress among staff.
- Employees are more willing to take initiative or assume responsibility to complete tasks.
Companies that adopt flexible scheduling as part of their operations often see a strong return on their investment through improved employee retention and performance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a flexible work arrangement?
A flexible work arrangement changes when, where, or how an employee completes their work, such as flex time, compressed schedules, staggered shifts, or telecommuting.
Will flexible scheduling affect my pay?
Pay depends on company policy and employment laws; some arrangements maintain the same salary while hourly pay may vary with hours worked.
How can flexible schedules reduce absenteeism?
Flexible schedules let employees handle appointments and family needs without taking full days off, which can lower unplanned absences.
How do employers measure success after implementing flexible schedules?
Employers typically track metrics like productivity, absenteeism, turnover, and employee satisfaction to evaluate the impact.