Can a Business Benefit From a Shorter Workweek?

The concept of a four-day workweek has long been debated, with strong anecdotal evidence supporting its effectiveness. The nation of Iceland provides one of the most compelling real-world examples. 

Their journey began small in 2015 with initial trials involving about 2,500 workers; or, just under one percent of the population. These efforts have dramatically expanded, however, and today, nearly 90 percent of Icelandic workers have moved to a reduced work schedule, typically around 36 hours a week for full-time workers. What’s more, this shift has occurred without any negative impact on the economy. In fact, Iceland's society has seen significant benefits.

A Spoiler-Free Success Story

Iceland's approach was distinct: they actively avoided simply lengthening the remaining four workdays to compensate for the missing fifth day. Workers received the same compensation as they did for a traditional five-day week.

The results span a wide range, demonstrating that a shorter week has been highly effective, both for individuals and the workplace.

Significant Gains in Worker Wellness

The change has had direct, positive impacts on the mental health and general well-being of Icelandic workers, leading to several social benefits.

Stress and Burnout Reduction

Workers reported lower stress levels, leading to a significant decrease in burnout and an increase in job satisfaction.

A More Balanced Life

The extra time has fostered more balanced and happier lifestyles across all age groups and professions.

Stronger Communities

More time is available for community involvement, which has strengthened local bonds.

Family and Personal Growth

Family relationships have improved due to more equitable parental engagement, and individuals are using the extra day to pursue hobbies or educational opportunities.

These sustainable practices have since inspired numerous European countries to launch their own pilot programs, attempting to replicate and adapt Iceland’s success.

Work Smarter, Not Longer

A shorter week has also proven to be better for Icelandic businesses, with several key factors driving workplace improvement:

Embracing Technology

Iceland has strategically invested in modern digital infrastructure and ubiquitous connectivity. This allows workers to leverage cloud-based and automated tools, a practice many younger generations entering the workforce were already prepared for.

Rest Equals Productivity

The fundamental acknowledgment was that an employee given proper rest and relaxation is simply better equipped to do their job. By embracing more efficient technologies, businesses found they could accomplish more in less time, and oftentimes, with superior results.

Iceland’s experiment definitively demonstrates that working smarter beats working longer.

The Key to Iceland's Success

It’s important to understand how Iceland achieved these results. The entire nation, including its government, showed a deep appreciation for the power of the right technology applied correctly. 

This shortened work model can and does work, as the near-universal adoption by the Icelandic workforce proves every day. It requires the essential support of the right digital infrastructure. 

For more great technology-related content, return to our blog soon.