Dive Brief:
- Nearly one-third of software developers (31%) say working during a pandemic has made them feel less productive, according to a survey of 324 developers from software company InfluxData. Almost one in four developers say they now work later hours than usual, while 33% work longer hours overall.
- As the pandemic reshapes software developers' work routines, 38% are concerned about loneliness and feelings of isolation. Excessive snacking, job security and poor network bandwidth add worry to developers' daily lives.
- With widespread stay at home orders in place, 91% of software developers say they are currently working from home full-time, while just 2% still heads into an office regularly. Another 7% are working part-time from home.
Dive Insight:
Working through a crisis is an uphill battle, and workers require time to adjust.
The pandemic adds layers of complexity to work, with 60% of American workers saying their job is now more demanding (60%), according to KPMG. The firm surveyed 1,000 U.S. workers in April.
COVID-19's impact has made work/life balance a struggle for 56% of workers, as many suddenly grapple with balancing family and work life, according to KPMG. Half find work to be overwhelming and 53% say their mental health has worsened due to the impact of the pandemic.
"During times of uncertainty, like now, it is more important than ever to make sure employees not only understand their role and responsibilities, but also that they feel recognized and appreciated for what they do," said Paul Lipinski, human capital advisory leader at KPMG, in the survey announcement.
Fine-tuning a team as it works remotely starts with intentional communication, creating deliberate one-on-one check-ins between managers and workers. Lack of engagement in a team at a time like this can lead to further drops in efficiency.
