According to the latest study by the Pew Internet and American Life Project, 62% of us who work full- or part-time use the internet or email at our work place.
Such "networked workers," as the study calls us, are not only connected while at work, but are also more likely than average Americans to have access to a wide variety of technological gadgets outside of the work place. We are more likely to own cell phones, desktop and laptop computers, and personal digital assistants (PDAs).
Is being networked all day a plus or a minus?
According to Pew, a large majority of wired workers note big improvements in our work lives as the result of technologies such as the internet, email, cell phones and instant messaging:
• 80% say these technologies have improved our ability to do the job.
• 73% say these technologies have improved our ability to share ideas with co-workers.
• 58% say these tools have allowed us more flexibility in the hours we work.
At the same time, half of us note various negative impacts of communications technologies:
• 46% say these technologies increase demands that we work more hours.
• 49% say these technologies increase the level of stress in our job.
• 49% say such technologies make it harder for us to disconnect from work when we are at home and on the weekends.
So what do you think: Does technology improve your job performance or hurt your time off the job? Take our poll (to the right) and let us know.
To read the entire Pew report, go to Networked Workers.
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