We can't dispute the fact that the advent of technology has played a great role in improving activities in the workplace. With the networking of the different PCs in companies, it has become easy to send a broadcast message to all staff at a time, and coupled with other sophisticated technology, coordinating and controlling multiple workers has become easier which has resulted in a high level of productivity and an increase in the staff to management relationships.
But then, the issue of workers' privacy and management compliance with work ethics has been of serious concern, and to a very large extent, it always appears as though most management has always used technology to the disadvantage of her staff. You find situations where CCTV cameras are mounted in most offices and privacy is denied to its peak. Most PCs used by staff are always under serious surveillance and sometimes, staff's don't even have a single knowledge that they are being monitored, and whenever they get a bit flimsy, their job is threatened.
I understand the importance of monitoring workers to ascertain there level of productivity, and to improve workers attendance and also enhance Cyber security but then, the inability of most management to go about this ethically has been of great concern to me.
What's your view about this?
The legality and ethical considerations of electronic and video monitoring in the workplace depend on specific privacy laws in your country. However, here's my perspective:
Electronic Monitoring: Monitoring company-owned devices and email accounts is generally acceptable, provided that employees are aware of this practice. This protects company assets and intellectual property. However, employers should avoid monitoring personal devices, even if used for work purposes at times.
Video Monitoring: CCTV in public workspaces is usually permissible for security purposes. However, surveillance in areas where employees have a reasonable expectation of privacy (e.g., bathrooms, changing rooms) is a serious violation. Clear notices about video monitoring should be provided, especially in less obvious locations.
Ethically, I believe monitoring can be justified if it focuses on safety, security, and productivity on company-owned devices, as long as there's transparency about its use. The ethical line is crossed when monitoring becomes intrusive, targeting personal devices or private aspects of employees' work life