The increase in cyber technology in the workplace has increased end users’ production but it has also introduced new ways for deviance within the workplace, sometimes referred to as cyber-loafing. Workplace deviance typically comes in the form of misuse of organization technology or misuse of time while working. The deviance can present for various reasons, such as lack of meaningful tasks, difficulty in current tasks, constant alerts or pings coming from the technology, or a “lack of justice or fair treatment in the workplace.” [1] In general, the deviance can lead to lack of engagement which ultimately can lead to mistakes from rushing or not paying attention.

                With so much technology available, from smart watches on our wrists to smart phones, the potential to lose focus can be great. These devices are always nearby to grab attention with notifications but there are also the devices on which we do much of our work. The evolution of mobile phones to smart devices that can keep us connected in many forms, text messaging or social media, at all times of the day have worked their way into our work spaces. These devices can break our concentration on tasks being performed or act as an easy way for us to distract ourselves from a task we view as tedious, mundane, or even when we are stuck on something that is difficult. Once distracted it becomes harder to get back into a work grove potentially causing us to fall behind and rush. Our work devices can serve has a distraction tool as well, typically most organizations have relaxed web filter rules that block known malicious or inappropriate content, but users are allowed access to general web browsing. Users can also use their work emails to sign up for gray-mail content, which are typically non-work related blogs or mailing lists.

                Workplace deviance can lead to some larger issues if users or organizations do not try to limit them in some form. A major issue is the sense of urgency that can come from falling behind on tasks. This issue can lead to mistakes being made through the use of shortcuts or overlooking standard processes or steps. This can impact performance for the end users, but it can also have effects on the organization. These effects would be issues in the information systems and data security of the organization, including over utilization of network resources, data leaks, or malware infections. [1] This can lead to losses of proprietary data, loss of customers and sales, and possibly reputational hits on the organization.

Technology advancements are entrenched in our lives, from personal to work, therefore it is not something that can be removed from the workplace. The best route to combat cyber-loafing to is develop company policies that limit personal device usage, personal web browsing on company devices, or stricter polices that do not allow these things into the workplace. Depending on the area or work and security of the environment some of these may be too strict, this is something has to be addressed by corporate leadership.

Citations

1. University of Wisconsin–Madison. “Driven to Distraction: What Causes Cyberloafing at Work?” UW–Madison News, April 9, 2019. https://news.wisc.edu/driven-to-distraction-what-causes-cyberloafing-at-work/.