Remote Work Case Study

Slack didn’t break remote working, your colleagues did

We swapped the office for workplace messaging platforms and boy was it hard. As we prepare for a hybrid working future, the race is on to fix it.

Summary of article: A year after UK employers sent their staff to work remotely due to the pandemic, many haven't returned to the office. This shift led to the adoption of digital communication platforms like Slack. While Slack's mission is to simplify and enhance work lives, the rise in messaging dependency suggests otherwise. Slack data showed messaging time increased significantly within a month. Cal Newport's "World Without Email" highlighted that even before remote work, people checked workplace messages nearly every minute. Research indicated that interruptions can cause up to 23 minutes of productivity loss. Slack's VP, Noah Weiss, says the tool provides features but its optimal use depends on individuals. Issues arise from Slack's default settings promoting constant communication. Microsoft Teams saw similar patterns. Many firms introduced these tools without setting usage guidelines, leading to ad-hoc adoption or total avoidance. Some workers feel compelled to constantly check and respond to messages. Alternatives like Quill and Doist's Twist aim to reduce these digital interruptions, offering a more mindful communication experience.