It was only a few years ago when mobile devices were seen as a hindrance and distraction that would lead to decreased productivity. Times have clearly changed and we’ve got the numbers to prove it.
Today, BlackBerry launched the initial results of a global study on productivity. The study, produced in partnership with research firm GfK, revealed that the definition of productivity is changing.
Gone are the days where the concept of productivity was rooted in an employer-imposed 9 to 5 work day. We found that today’s professionals now see productivity as a personal priority rather than something that companies seek for their employees. For instance, 67 percent of business smartphone users are “always looking to improve their productivity” and 69 percent are “constantly looking for new ways to get things done as efficiently as possible.”
Business users are also looking to advance their career while balancing their personal responsibilities and mobile devices are helping them achieve their goals.
- A tool, not a toy: 65 percent of business smartphone users say it is important they have a “substantial impact” on the outcome of their work.
- Mobile office in your pocket: Two thirds of survey respondents agreed that smartphones allow them the flexibility to work when and where they want – enabling users to work outside the confines of the 9 to 5 workday and the traditional office space.
While it’s clear that productivity is going mobile, the results still made us ask the question: How do BlackBerry users compare? Are they more interested in having devices that help increase their productivity? You bet. The study shows that BlackBerry users are more likely to be motivated by achievement and personal rewards compared to users on competing smartphone platforms.
- Making an Impact: BlackBerry users were 43 percent more likely than other users to agree that they are motivated to be productive in order to make a mark in their company and life.
- Balance: BlackBerry end-users were 27 percent more likely to place importance in being productive to have a better and more balanced work and personal life than competitor end-users.
- Maximizing Your Tools: BlackBerry end-users were 18 percent more likely than competitor end-users to agree that mobile technology simplifies their life and 14 percent more likely to agree that mobile technology helps them get their job done quicker
The research also showed that a lot of this had to do with the devices themselves. BlackBerry simply outperforms its competitors in key features that enhance productivity:
- Powered for Success: BlackBerry users were more likely to say that their device is durable, can power them through an entire day and keeps them connected with co-workers.
- Security is in our DNA: BlackBerry users stated a higher degree of satisfaction with key productivity features compared to users of other devices, including privacy of personal information, removable battery and document editing.
- Keyboard Love: Not surprisingly, BlackBerry’s physical keyboard was cited as a key reason that BlackBerry enables greater productivity.
Below image shows features considered high value to business end-users.
It’s clear that the way we work and communicate is constantly evolving, and while everyone has different preferences, our smartphones are going to be key drivers that help us improve communications and collaboration with our colleagues, friends and family for years to come.
For more information about our global survey findings, check out our infographic.