
Manufacturing firms follow separate culture for frontline and other workers: Study


Amidst the Indian manufacturing sector, a recent survey by UKG reveals a significant issue: 84% of employees feel there are two separate cultures in their companies, one for frontline workers and one for others.
This finding highlights a challenge within organisations, with 77% noting it's tougher to fill frontline manager roles compared to non-managerial positions.
Despite this disparity, 94% acknowledge their companies are actively working on providing more flexible work arrangements for frontline workers, signaling a positive shift.
However, there's a gap in utilising technology. 69% of employees believe their organisations aren't doing enough to leverage mobile technology for the frontline employee experience.
The survey also looked into the impact of labor laws, with 96% finding them effective. On priorities, 52% have adopted flexible scheduling, and other initiatives include wellness programs (51%), financial benefits (49%), and remote work options (34%).
Commenting on the survey, Sumeet Doshi, Country Manager at UKG India, emphasized progress and innovation in Indian manufacturing.
Despite these strides, only 10% use Artificial Intelligence, revealing untapped potential. Ashok Saxena, VP Engineering at UKG India, stressed the need to integrate technology for a connected and empowered workforce.
Looking ahead, priorities for the next 12 months include employee well-being (47%), cybersecurity (41%), and digital transformation (40%). Diversity, equity, inclusion initiatives (39%) and sustainability efforts (39%) also feature prominently.