Productivity is down and burnout is up, if we’re to believe the headlines. One statistic I saw had 40% of the workforce feeling overburdened by what’s being asked of them in this change-happens-daily environment. Yet, we’re surrounded by the promise of tools that make work easier.
I’ve been reflecting on this paradox, especially as we approach a new year and renewed strategic business missions. When it comes to productivity, we might need to rethink long-held assumptions, especially if we want to see it increase and not stagnate.
First, is productivity a metric or a mission? I’d say it’s a mission. Our greatest advantage today is our ability to adapt while delivering real results. That’s also a mindset. Traditional productivity measures and systems – think annual reviews and forced rankings – are being replaced by more human-centric, real-time approaches, like project-based 360 feedback. I think there is a lot of sense in this reimagining of how we view, and then measure, productivity. I’m not saying we have to throw out reviews, but we should certainly be thinking about the limits of what they, and other standard systems, are able to measure.
Second, are efficiency and quality at odds, or are they bedfellows? They are not necessarily opposites, but we need to put in the effort to avoid the “workslop” that’s become a buzzword lately. In this age of tech, working smarter, not just harder isn’t as cliche as it sounds. There should be more focus on ownership, streamlining workflows, embracing new solutions and celebrating every win. Less focus on the blame game and speed to delivery. Efficient isn’t the same thing as fast, and an increased reliance on tools may have us thinking they’re synonymous.
Third, is the tail wagging the dog or is it the other way around? The tools at our disposal are powerful, but it’s our people who turn potential into progress. I’m asking my company leaders to embrace technology – that’s imperative – but to also model and champion behaviors that drive productivity: clear priorities, relentless focus and a bias for action (we like this one so much it’s a core company value).
I’m asking my team to set the pace going into 2026. Measure real progress, not just hours, and make sure outcomes map back to the mandate and stated priorities. Also take time to cheer for the pivots and the breakthroughs; the moments when people and teams decide to act, not wait, and turn challenges into opportunities. Productivity should be, and can be, more about acting with energy, clarity and purpose.
We have an opportunity in front of us to erode the current disconnect between leadership optimism and workplace reality. But to do that effectively, we must understand what productivity really looks like and how it’s achieved. That’s no small task.
This publication contains general information only and Sikich is not, by means of this publication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or any other professional advice or services. This publication is not a substitute for such professional advice or services, nor should you use it as a basis for any decision, action or omission that may affect you or your business. Before making any decision, taking any action or omitting an action that may affect you or your business, you should consult a qualified professional advisor. In addition, this publication may contain certain content generated by an artificial intelligence (AI) language model. You acknowledge that Sikich shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by you or any person who relies on this publication.
