Can Technology Put the Work Back in The Workplace?

Not surprisingly, in this age of terminal multi-tasking and digital overload people are getting distracted and interrupted at work.

Jared Lindzon reports in a recent article in the Globe & Mail that the average employee loses approximately 86 minutes a day to unnecessary distractions, costing employers an average of $10,375 per employee per year.

Lindzon introduces us to MyFocus, a device you place on your desk to announce whether or not you’re busy.  The device and its accompanying software blocks all digital distractions from mobile phones and computers at the push of a button. It glows green when you’re available and red when you’re busy.

How ironic that a company has developed technology to offset the insidious grip of technology on our lives.

Let me be clear, I am no Luddite.  I long ago embraced technology and rely on it in both my personal and professional life.  However, I can’t help but think that this clever little button offers little more than a band-aid solution to a bigger behavioural problem – our resistance to turn off and be present.

In my view, being present (or in the moment) is the single most important ingredient that I can bring to my work as a mediator. It ensures I am focused and connected and responsive to the parties’ interactions.  It enables me to see opportunities for movement and progress that are aligned with the needs of the parties.  In addition to years of training in dispute resolution, I have studied mindfulness theory and practice to improve my ability to be present, and, like many, I sometimes struggle with being in the moment both at home and at work.

Perhaps a button can help us establish boundaries to block out distractions and interruptions at work, but couldn’t wearing a red hat or headphones send the same message?  Or, even better, how about turning off distracting devices at designated times in the day?

What’s really needed are changes in organizational norms and human behaviour. The human mind has just not kept up with advances in technology.  (Or, as mindfulness guru, Jon Kabat-Zinn, puts it: "We’re still saddled with a stone age mind in a digital world.") We need to rethink how we work, interact and respond to workplace stimuli.

Without first creating a workplace environment that fosters awareness, focus and presence, the button just becomes another distraction.