Mainly a response to the growing trend toward corporate data-based decision-making, the weekly canvassing is typically done through cloud-based software such as that provided by Seattle-based TINYpulse.
One senior technology-company executive quoted in the article sees pulse surveys as a relatively inexpensive and efficient way to “…build a strong culture and empower employees,” which “…will result in better care of customers.” The executive, Karl Waldman, indicated that the TINYpulse service costs his firm, Retail Solutions, $300 per month, or less than $20 per month per executives who make use of the information.
Waldman says the “pulse-taking” exercises have yielded some surprises and make the firm’s global team more cohesive. One change implemented was the frequency and focus of monthly financial meetings, according to the employee responses. In addition, anonymous reports of health concerns among the workforce were forwarded to HR, so the issues could be dealt with accordingly.
Still, the director of surveys for the SHRM feels that, while the weekly pulse surveys are useful, they’re unlikely to replace more in-depth annual canvassing anytime soon.