Clare Alexander is Scottish Enterprise’s head of workplace innovation, and believes business leaders should be predisposed to see the power of their people.
Globalisation and the fast-paced development and adoption of new technologies means businesses today have to take an increasingly flexible and innovative approach to the way they operate to ensure future growth.
Recent research has shown that a people-centred approach to business practice results in a more motivated, engaged and happier workforce. This in turn leads to greater innovation and higher levels of productivity within the organisation.
The approach, known as workplace innovation, not only helps create more empowered employees – it can also make businesses more efficient, productive and profitable. Figures show that, for companies that practice workplace innovation, staff turnover is over a fifth lower, while absences are reduced by nearly a quarter. One study showed that of the 6000 European firms surveyed, 68% saw a reduction in costs while 85% experienced increased sales.
By encouraging workers to share ideas and suggestions, companies can not only improve staff satisfaction – they can also stimulate a broad range of benefits that extend throughout the business. But while businesses may recognise the potential of listening to their workforce, the crucial next step is identifying what ideas will work for the company.
On 20 June Scotland House in London will play host to an event which aims to explore the potential impact workplace innovation could have on Scottish businesses, including achieving diverse economic and social policy goals.
At the event I will highlight Scotland’s approach to creating fair work and innovative workplaces, as well as help stimulate fresh thinking and collaboration about innovation policy and productivity within an inclusive growth framework.
Workplace innovation is already commonplace in many European countries, and we want Scotland to become an exemplar. We’re keen to help businesses uncover new ways of working to make the best use of all resources – people, processes and relationships.
For more information about workplace innovation support, visit
www.scottish-enterprise.com/workplace-innovation
Scotland House – a new, innovative business hub located in central London – aims to present Scottish businesses with new opportunities, creating a platform on which to celebrate and showcase Scotland’s ambitious companies, world-class sectors and impressive research and innovation capabilities.
For more information visit
www.scotlandhouse.com.
