In tough economic times, people and companies are beginning to think of ways to save. The state of Utah took it to the next level by mandating the 4 day workweek:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/ut_four_day_workweek
I was first introduced to flex hours a couple years ago. HR brilliance. Really. I'm not lucky enough to work it, but I knew someone who was. I would absolutely love working a shorter week. Heck, I'm here close to 10 hours a day anyway, and I have no one to care for but myself. I can see how it would be harder for those with children and families. Longer hours means more daycare, and less time spent together.
What Utah found out, however, was that the employees were happier with the new time structure (evidenced by this "expert" testimony):
"I do love the 4/10 and told my boss if they take it away, I'll probably cry," she said.
(Wow, thank you for that. Great report.)
But not only that, it also turned out to be largely profitable for the state. $4.8 million they saved in just one short year. The main savings, as it turned out, was from a decrease in overtime hours. Plus, I bet people are more efficient not having to put down and pick projects back up day after day. The more contiguous hours worked, the more headway you can make. AND it's beneficial for the environment lowering energy and fuel usage.
I say California should try it. We have even more things to enjoy outside of work than Utah :) ... [enter angry Utah native argument here] so more free time during the day would be enviable.
The point of the story is that good things sometimes come from thinking outside the box. I love when people take risks, break away from the norm, try new things... and then find that they are successful.
Doing things that worked for those before us will only get us as far as them.
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