Closing Case: Creating Humane Work Schedules

Case Summary

Sixty$-$hour workweeks used to be the norm in the United States; now $80-$hours is not uncommon. But working longer hours does not always increase productivity. One recent study showed that U$.$S$.$ workers were less productive per hour worked than those from countries with shorter workweeks, including France and Germany. Experts hypothesize that overworked employees become tired, stressed, and less motivated.

Some companies are now actively seeking ways to offer a more reasonable work$$life balance. Part$-$time work is another increasingly popular option. In many cases, it is not hard to implement these new working arrangements. It is accepted wisdom that willing workers are plentiful, no matter how demanding the schedule, but most companies note that there is often a shortage of qualified managers. Increasingly, people want time off and are willing to give up money and career advancement to get it$.$ Alternate, flexible work arrangements are more acceptable to workers, and they can also create a more motivated, productive, and loyal workforce.

Case Questions

Do you think working hours will get longer or shorter in the future? Why?

Would you be willing to trade off scheduling flexibility and balance for slightly reduced compensation? What factors would be important to you in such an arrangement?