Singapore's business leaders admitted to difficulties in managing expectations of the three main blocs that they serve. Source: Shutterstock

Singapore’s business leaders admitted to difficulties in managing expectations of the three main blocs that they serve. Source: Shutterstock

How technology boosts creativity in the workplace

MANAGING expectations can be a tricky task in any capacity, but apparently, it is especially more challenging for C-suite executives to balance the expectations of customers, employees, and wider society.

According to a new study commissioned by Fujitsu, more than two-thirds, or 68 percent of executives surveyed in Singapore admitted they faced difficulties in managing expectations. However, they prioritize employees (68 percent) above customers (66 percent) and society (30 percent).

However, they realize that in order to succeed, they need to deliver to all three groups.

This is where technology can play a crucial role.

The role of technology

The role of digital technology is absolutely crucial in fostering innovation in the enterprise, according to 84 percent of the respondents.

In fact, 76 percent of the business leaders claim that technologies have already improved their offerings and services.

Seventy eight percent of them believe that technologies have had a positive impact in working lives of their employees and according to 68 percent them, it has allowed their team to be more creative.

Two-thirds of the execs in Singapore also responded favorably to technology and see them as being vital to delivering a positive impact on society.

However, more than half (56 percent) expressed concern that society will view technology badly, due to the the automation of some jobs.

Employees empowered

When it comes to employees, companies tend to value the collaborative (60 percent) and innovative (54 percent) more than others, and most executives in Singapore believe that their employees have adequate tools to be creative and collaborative.

However, almost half of the businesses admitted that they lost valuable staff due to frustration and 42 percent of the executives weren’t confident that their company was good at unlocking creativity.

Factors that stifles employees from reaching their full potential include too much focus on daily tasks, minimal talent development, limited growth opportunities, and a lack of avenues to share ideas.

Technologies have come a long way in improving everything from simplest tasks to the most complex management systems and companies have used it to boost productivity, save money and maximize profits.

However, the focus of technology should always remain on the people; may it be customers, people or society.