Representative photo NEW DELHI: From moderate savings in office rental costs, client meetings, and employee commuting to reduced commuting stress and higher energy levels among employees, the work-from-home (WFH) practice has brought significant advantages to India’s corporate landscape, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. However, challenges such as blurred boundaries between work and personal life, difficulties in maintaining self-discipline, and reduced communication effectiveness highlight its downsides. The CII-FMS Study on Cost-Benefit Analysis of WFH, based on 115 responses from employers and employees representing companies operating in a variety of sectors -- technology and IT to healthcare and pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and industrial and consulting, sheds light on these dynamics.
The study highlights substantial savings for organizations in areas like office rental costs and client-related expenses. For employees, a significant reduction in commuting time and stress has led to increased energy and a moderate rise in productivity. Flexibility in work schedules and remote options have proven especially beneficial for parents of young children and caregivers.
However, the drawbacks are equally notable. Many employees struggle with the lack of dedicated workspaces and face challenges in separating professional and personal lives, leading to increased stress. Employers report a decline in effective communication, teamwork, and organizational cultu.