Internet access affects motivation of staff
06/06/2008(16:38)
Employers should ensure staff are given enough freedom on the web to remain motivated at work, but not to the point they are distracted, according to research.
The Cranfield School of Management said limiting web surfing too much can make work "a dismal grind" whereas more leniency can make it "fun".
Toby Thompson from the educational institute said: "For a lot of people a large part of who they are, their identity if you like, is defined by the internet and their activities on it. Restricting access to the internet takes that portion of their identity away from [them]."
He added that work motivation is not the only factor to be considered and said staff retention should also be taken into account.
"It would be costly to lose a valuable employee to a draconian rule that forbade Facebook access."
Mr Thompson said striking the balance is crucial and may extend beyond internet access to other office ethoses.
A recent report has claimed banning personal internet use in the workplace could cost companies up to £4 billion each year.
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