iPods in the Workplace Diligence or Distraction
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Arts Entertainment -> subcategory Other.
iPods in the Workplace: Diligence or Distraction?
Summary:
Author Barbara Pachter highlights the dual nature of iPods in the office, praising their ability to help some employees focus by listening to music without disturbing others. However, she points out that these devices can also isolate users from their surroundings, causing them to miss important interactions.
Keywords:
iPod, iPhone, Apple, Mac, gadget, Zune, iTunes
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Article Body:
Aplet, 32, a former rock musician, is rarely without his iPod, even at work. He enjoys a range of music, from Bob Marley to the White Stripes, and listens to podcasts about Web design. Recently, he shared his holiday playlist with colleagues by connecting his iPod to the office audio system.
"My iPod's a lifesaver," says Aplet. "When I'm coding and need focus, I use it to tune out distractions and concentrate."
Office workers across the country are doing the same. A survey by Spherion, a staffing company, found that nearly a third of U.S. workers use iPods or similar devices at work. About 80% say it boosts their job satisfaction and productivity.
"Dilbert" cartoonist Scott Adams humorously supports any tech that entertains during work, even if it risks detection.
But what do supervisors and coworkers think about iPods? Opinions differ.
Productivity Boost or Distraction?
Some question whether listening to music truly enhances productivity or if it creates a disconnect among staff. Concerns include missed phone calls or alarms, and potential security issues, like downloading sensitive data.
Many small tech firms welcome iPods at work. Some, like National Semiconductor and Capital One Financial, even provide them for employee training and communication.
Proceed with Caution
However, not all companies embrace iPods. Teri Munger from Intel hesitates, noting she rarely sees iPods in her building. Barbara Pachter, an office-etiquette specialist, stresses using such technology wisely to avoid issues.
The Spherion survey reveals younger workers are more likely to use iPods at work, particularly in monotonous or solitary roles where music helps maintain motivation.
Suitability Varies by Workplace
Daniel Robin, a workplace consultant, agrees iPods fit well in certain environments, like for solo IT technicians. But he warns of safety risks, such as not hearing a forklift or colleague.
Pachter emphasizes iPods' dual nature: they aid focus without bothering others, but also risk isolating users. "Dilbert" creator Adams jokes that anything discouraging coworker interruptions can be beneficial.
Dale Carnegie Training recommends caution with iPods, especially for new employees aiming to build relationships.
Setting Policies
At Intel, iPod use depends on managers, as long as work and safety aren't compromised, and coworkers aren't distracted. Wiatre of Spherion notes some companies are implementing guidelines, similar to cell phone policies, to prevent misunderstandings.
Folsom's SynapSense, however, embraces iPods. With a diverse staff, iPods enhance concentration without formal policies. Patricia Nealon, a spokesperson, appreciates the focus they offer to developers, though she prefers face-to-face interactions herself.
Whether iPods enhance diligence or pose distractions largely hinges on workplace culture and the nature of the work itself.
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