The Rise of Employee Surveillance: Tracking Productivity at Home

TLDRWith the increase in remote work due to the pandemic, many employers are turning to employee surveillance software to track productivity. However, studies show that such surveillance can lead to decreased morale and burnout. Companies like GitLab focus on measuring results rather than monitoring employees, fostering open communication and emphasizing objectives.

Key insights

🔍Employee surveillance software has seen a significant increase in usage as more people work from home.

📊While surveillance may provide a sense of control for employers, it may actually impair productivity and lead to decreased morale.

🤝Companies like GitLab focus on documenting metrics and objectives, fostering open communication, and measuring results rather than monitoring employees.

📖Current laws do not adequately address the use of employee surveillance software, highlighting the need for greater legal protections and restrictions.

💻Employers should prioritize trust, open communication, and goal-oriented approaches to remote work instead of relying on surveillance software.

Q&A

Why are employers turning to employee surveillance software?

Employers are concerned about productivity while employees work from home and believe surveillance software provides a sense of control.

Does employee surveillance software improve productivity?

Studies suggest that surveillance software may actually impair productivity and lead to decreased morale.

What approach does GitLab take towards remote work?

GitLab focuses on measuring results, documenting metrics and objectives, fostering open communication, and avoiding employee surveillance.

Are there laws governing the use of employee surveillance software?

Current laws do not adequately address employee surveillance, highlighting the need for greater legal protections.

What should employers prioritize in remote work environments?

Employers should prioritize trust, open communication, and goal-oriented approaches to remote work instead of relying on surveillance software.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Due to the pandemic, remote work has increased, and employers are using surveillance software to track productivity.

02:57Companies like GitLab focus on measuring results and fostering open communication to ensure productivity.

06:45Surveillance software can lead to decreased morale and burnout among employees.

10:50Current laws do not adequately address the use of employee surveillance software.

11:31Employers should prioritize trust, open communication, and goal-oriented approaches to remote work.