The rise of digital distractions is negatively affecting both productivity and employee well-being around the world. This “always on” culture poses substantial challenges in maintaining a focused and productive work environment.
Unily’s Digital Noise Impact Report reveals that more than three-quarters, or 77%, of employees find notifications from workplace digital tools distracting.
Drawing on responses from 500 employees across the U.S. and U.K., the study found 31% are distracted by digital notifications every 15 minutes and 48% are distracted every 30 minutes.
People Management reports that this leads to an estimated 160 distractions per week.
The high frequency of digital interruptions also impacts mental health and burnout among employees as the constant connectivity heightens stress.
“Nearly six in ten (59%) employees report that digital tools add to their workplace stress. But the negative impact of excessive digital noise on employees’ wellbeing isn’t spread evenly across organizations.”
Nearly three out of four managers, or 71%, said digital tools add to their workplace stress, and 41% agreed that “workplace digital tools are complex and confusing.”
Examples of these digital tools include video conferencing, email, and instant messaging. Despite these tools’ inherent distraction challenges, 73% of employees also acknowledge that they help them feel connected in the workplace.
Notably, 91% of respondents approve of email, 84% approve of intranet platforms, and 83% approve of message apps.
However, the need for balance is apparent, with 67% of employees saying they want greater control over when and where they receive notifications. This percentage rises to 83% among respondents who are managers.
Experts suggest providing clear guidelines on how to use digital systems can equip employees to manage their digital environments better. Additionally, tools with AI capabilities are recommended to help prioritize notifications, filter out digital noise, and automate routine tasks.
These challenges are also leading the U.K.’s Labour Party to propose the “right to switch off” which the party claims will address high burnout and work-life balance challenges.
