Having moved to a four-day work week in January this year, DataLase, has hailed the decision a complete success. According to the company, DataLase has seen various commercial and employee well-being benefits.

Not unlike other businesses considering a similar move, DataLase had spent considerable time looking at the implications of moving to a shorter working week, carefully weighing up the positives and negatives. It helped that the company usually completed its business by lunchtime on a Friday, so the transition would be made easier. On this basis, the senior leadership team made the decision and the company quickly established its new routine, closely monitoring the impact.

DataLase’s initial decision to move to a four-day week was based on the premise of being able to accrue far-reaching positive benefits, particularly in terms of productivity and performance. It was anticipated that staff, who would be better rested and benefit from improved work-life balance, would see an improvement in their health and well-being, in turn improving absenteeism and contributing to an increase in motivation and productivity. Furthermore, it was believed that the change would make DataLase a more appealing place to work, showcasing competitive employee benefits and have a positive impact on recruitment and retention.

In conducting a review at the six-month point, DataLase has found that not only had morale improved significantly, but staff were more relaxed and productivity had increased. The reduced week also helped lessen DataLase’s carbon footprint, with lower energy usage on the day the business is closed. Additionally, employees have had to do less traveling – a bonus given the current fuel prices and good for the environment too.

“For any company considering a similar move, I’d say, ‘Just do it,’” says DataLase’s CEO Clare Lewis. “Not only will it improve the morale and mental well-being of employees, it really makes a business stand out from the rest. It also helps demonstrate the company’s consideration for employee welfare and an improved work-life balance, which in turn helps to attract a greater talent pool from a recruitment point of view.

“I firmly believe this is the way forward and far more businesses should be adopting a four-day week,” she adds.