Are remote workers more or less productive?

A recent study from the University of Iowa suggests hybrid work may be an effective compromise between remote and in-office work. Researchers at the Tippie College of Business followed 219 hybrid employees for a week, tracking their productivity when working from home versus in the office. On days spent working from home, these employees were found to be more productive, progressing further towards their work goals and completing tasks more quickly. The more frequently they worked from home, the greater their productivity increased.

The study also measured the workers' energy levels every hour throughout the day. On work-from-home days, the researchers found that the workers' energy levels were more consistent throughout the day. This consistency was due to fewer distractions and the ability to set their own schedules. In contrast, on office days, their energy levels tended to fluctuate more due to a higher number of distractions. These energy fluctuations can make it more difficult to focus and make progress on work tasks.

The results of the study were significant, with workers experiencing about 33% less energy variability on work-from-home days compared to office days. Each 1 percentage point reduction in energy variability was associated with a 26% increase in goal progress.

The study suggests that hybrid work may be a beneficial arrangement for boosting workplace productivity. By offering employees the flexibility to work from home when possible, employers can help reduce energy variability and improve overall productivity.