Adobe’s “Future of Time” study says continued uncertainty increases digitization and collaboration

Adobe Document Cloud released new research on the evolution of work in the second annual global “Future of Time” study. The study reveals that over 70% of managers and employees agree that change has become the new constant in workplaces – and workers now rely on digital tools not only to keep productive, but also achieve peace of mind during particularly uncertain times.

Adobe’s study, “The Future of Time: Redefining Productivity During Uncertainty,” surveyed more than 9,700 employees, enterprise managers and small business leaders across eight global markets including India, offering a comprehensive look at how uncertainty has impacted workforce productivity, collaboration and innovation. In addition to regionally specific issues, economic instability, climate changes, and COVID-19 variants emerged as some of the top global concerns.

Due to continued uncertainty, 70% of managers and employees reported spending more time at work absorbing or discussing news coverage compared to a year ago. This uncertainty has decreased efficiency and productivity for all employees, with Gen Z (93%) and millennials (87%) feeling stronger impacts compared with older generations, including 79% of Gen X employees, and 71% of Boomers and their older peers.

Most employees (84% in India) reported that uncertainty has required them to innovate in their positions – such as utilizing new processes and creative problem-solving approaches – while one in four expect their employers to innovate in the next year by giving them the opportunity to experiment with new processes.

Prativa Mohapatra, Vice-President and Managing Director, Adobe India, said, “All businesses continue to face significant uncertainty, as well as frequent impacts on employee wellbeing and productivity. The macroeconomic changes demand that organizations prioritize strategic investments in digital technologies – including modern productivity and workflow tools– that will enable better workforce productivity, collaboration and innovation.”

Adobe Document Cloud gives individuals and businesses of all sizes the tools to transform outdated processes into modern, efficient digital experiences. Document Cloud includes Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Acrobat Sign, and powerful companion mobile apps such as Acrobat Reader and Adobe Scan. Adobe Acrobat helps people to get their work done across desktop, mobile and online platforms, as well as inside popular Microsoft and G-Suite apps.