Last week, we highlighted the top 10 articles by our advisory team; today we present the top 10 editorial articles of 2020.
1. The emergence of Covid-19 requires organizations take steps to protect their entire workforces as much as possible and to train them to help prevent the possible spread of illness. Including contingent workers in these actions is important for everyone’s health and safety. “Covid-19 precautions: Don’t forget your contingent workers” discussed provisions for buyers of staffing services and their suppliers to ensure contingent workers stay healthy.
2. The pandemic brought communication and collaboration to the forefront in workforce solutions and technology provider relationships. “A new rapport: Covid-19 brings buyers closer to MSP and VMS providers” discussed how the health and the economic crisis accelerated a push toward increased collaboration and communication for all in the talent supply chain.
3. Some issues were independent of the pandemic. Statement-of-work management has become a priority for many staffing programs, with 59% saying in a recent survey they already have statement-of-work consultants incorporated into their CW programs. In addition, 37% will likely seriously explore the idea within two years. “Folding SOW into the CW program: Beyond rogue spend” took a look at some organizational drivers pushing for incorporating SOW into existing programs.
4. For many companies, certain functions — often filled by contingents — have not traditionally been remote-friendly roles. The pandemic forced organizations to rethink work-from-home policies — including for contingents. “The imposed working-from-home reality” explored some challenges programs faced in having remote contingents, from engagement to H-1Bs to security.
5. While companies and people rapidly shifted gears to adjust to the lockdowns, the post-pandemic return will require a more measured and prudent approach. “Shifting gears: Contingent workforce operations post-Covid” covered some anticipated changes to the world of work as program managers prepare to operate in the new normal.
6. “CW trends that will continue to impact your program, part 2” began the year discussing five trends that were expected to affect CW programs in 2020. Part one of the two-part series was published at the end of 2019 and discussed six other trends.
7. Contingent workforce managers are challenged to support several different stakeholders, locations and more while working from home — many times with limitations based on systems, time zones, etc. “Stay on top of your game while working from home” provided ideas on maintaining your and your staff’s morale.
8. The death of George Floyd in May at the hands of a police officer sparked outrage worldwide. “George Floyd’s death: Microsoft, Nike, Uber and other staffing buyers respond” summarized public statements and actions from prominent companies.
9. While organizations’ diversity hiring plans may be made with the best of intentions, contingent workforce managers must ensure they accurately follow the letter of the law. After two prominent companies received warnings from the US Department of Labor for their announced initiatives, “Crafting diversity initiatives? Tap legal before moving forward” explained what programs need to consider.
10. Following a year in which contingent workforce managers grappled with talent pools, chatbots, IC compliance issues and more, 2020 was expected to bring bring additional changes — some beneficial and some challenging. “A look into the crystal ball: CW trends for 2020” highlighted a number of trends our advisors expected to see take shape in 2020 many of which held even as the pandemic altered their course.
