A significant portion of the global workforce remains deskless, working in industries such as healthcare, retail, manufacturing, logistics, and hospitality. These employees are vital to the functioning of many essential services and the success of numerous businesses. Despite their crucial roles, deskless workers often face challenges that their office-based counterparts do not. These challenges include limited access to technology, inadequate communication, and a lack of professional development opportunities. Supporting this segment is not only a matter of equity but also a strategic necessity for businesses seeking to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Understanding the Deskless Workforce

Deskless workers are those who do not work in a traditional office environment. They could be on a factory floor, working in the field, behind the wheel of a delivery truck, or providing patient care in hospitals. In fact, according to a report by Emergence, deskless workers make up 80% of the global workforce. This underscores the scale and importance of this demographic, which plays a critical role in driving business outcomes and delivering services to customers.

Challenges Faced by Deskless Workers

Despite their importance, deskless workers face a range of unique challenges that can affect their engagement, productivity, and well-being.

1. Limited Access to Information

Deskless workers often lack access to company intranets, emails, and other digital communication tools that are essential for staying informed. This can lead to feelings of disconnection from the company’s goals, updates, and overall operations.

2. Communication Barriers

Without direct communication channels with management, deskless employees may struggle to voice concerns or provide feedback. This lack of communication can foster disengagement and create a sense of being undervalued or unheard.

3. Training and Development

Deskless workers typically have fewer opportunities for professional growth due to the logistical challenges of traditional training methods. This limitation can hinder their career progression and reduce overall job satisfaction.

4. Work-Life Balance

Many deskless jobs require irregular hours or physically demanding work. This can negatively impact work-life balance, leading to burnout, stress, and higher turnover rates among employees.

Strategies for Supporting Deskless Workers

To support the deskless workforce effectively, businesses need to implement solutions that address these challenges. Here are several strategies that can help:

1. Leverage Technology for Better Communication

Providing deskless workers with mobile-first solutions can bridge the communication gap. Mobile apps, messaging platforms, and real-time communication tools enable workers to stay connected with teams, receive updates, and provide feedback efficiently.

2. Implement Flexible Scheduling

Flexible scheduling systems are crucial for improving work-life balance. Shift management tools allow employees to view schedules, request time off, and swap shifts easily, empowering them to manage their time effectively.

3. Invest in Training and Development

Access to professional development should not be limited by location. By providing mobile-friendly training programs and learning management systems, businesses can support the growth of deskless workers and equip them with the skills needed for career advancement.

4. Prioritize Health and Safety

Ensuring the health and safety of deskless employees is paramount. Organizations should implement accessible safety training, provide wellness resources, and consider integrating wearable technology to monitor health and prevent injuries.

5. Foster a Sense of Belonging

To combat feelings of isolation, businesses should create platforms for regular check-ins, recognition, and team-building activities. Encouraging a culture of inclusivity and appreciation helps deskless workers feel valued and engaged.

The Business Case for Supporting Deskless Workers

Supporting deskless workers isn’t just a noble cause—it’s a smart business move. Engaged and supported employees are more productive, loyal, and motivated. By addressing the challenges faced by deskless workers, businesses can reduce turnover, improve morale, and boost customer satisfaction, all of which contribute to the company’s long-term success.

About IVPHUB

IVPHUB is an all-in-one business operations platform designed to streamline processes for office-based teams across HR, IT, Payroll, and Finance. By automating functions such as Employee Management, Leave Management, and Attendance Tracking, IVPHUB enhances operational efficiency and reduces errors. Additionally, the platform supports AI-driven recruitment and offers robust tools for upskilling employees. Built for scalability and compliance, IVPHUB ensures a smooth and efficient office-based employee experience while driving organizational excellence. While IVPHUB is not specifically tailored to deskless workers, it helps businesses manage their office teams effectively, contributing to smoother operations and improved overall performance.

Conclusion

Supporting the deskless workforce is essential for businesses aiming to thrive in today’s dynamic environment. By providing the right tools, fostering better communication, offering opportunities for growth, and prioritizing well-being, businesses can empower deskless employees and unlock their full potential. In doing so, they not only create a more engaged and productive workforce but also position themselves for continued success in a competitive market.

Discover how IVPHUB can streamline your business operations and improve coordination across office-based teams. With its automated employee management, scheduling, and upskilling features, IVPHUB helps optimize workflows and drive productivity. Take the next step towards more efficient and organized operations—explore IVPHUB today!