5. Case Study Working Smarter The economic data churned out by the government every month doesn't identify whether workers are working harder or smarter. But some part of productivity gains may be attributed to technology and working smarter. When a Raleigh, North Carolina, Internet start-up downsized Forsyth's job, she was not too upset. She had develop an aversion to the 50 and 60 hour workweeks, the chaotic working conditions and the lack of job description. The mother of two now works in publishing and finds her current employer more family friendly and enjoys keeping to a 40 hour workweek. Jeff, an early member of the Netscape management team, left his position thanks to a nice egg generated from the sale of Netscape to America Online. Today, he works part time as an investor and advisor to small internet start-ups. He is able to play with his three children, make them lunch, and even tag along on school field trips. After his 18 hour days at Netscape, Jeff's time with his children seems like mundane stuff, but when you finally get a chance to do it, you will appreciate it." Despite the fact that Americans have always place great stock in hard work, there is growing evidence that working hard may not mean working long. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics, the proportion of American working 49 hours or more a week remained steady in recent years, after rising in the late 1980s and early 1990s to approximately 29.5%. But in the past several years, the percentage of managers and professionals working 49 hours or more a week has begun to fall, reaching 27.9 percent. It appears that American is changing from working hard to working smart. It is more than simply a work/life balance issue, however, in that basic American social value of more hard work is being transformed into "work smart but don't forget your life obligation". How will this change the workplace? Will hourly workers decline overtime opportunities more consistently? Will they move to ensure (through their union) that their workweek remains consistent and does not include continual overtime request? Will the 40 hour workweek be challenged? How will this change the pace of productivity? Will the face time at the office continue to be important? Will HR professionals promote the firm use of flex time and telecommuting to attract and retain workers