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MIT Sloan Management Review: orchestrating workforce ecosystems.

The definition of “workforce” has changed considerably in the past several years as staffing has grown more complex. Leaders once focused on managing on-site employees in traditional full-time roles. Today, they are facing a challenge to simultaneously integrate remote workers, independent contractors, contingent labor, third-party suppliers and strategic partners. 

The 2022 Future of the Workforce Global Executive Study and Research Project found that only 30% of managers feel that their organization is prepared for this reality. Lack of workforce ecosystem structure and integration of worker types can lead to a fragmented organizational culture. 

Michael Smith, CEO of Randstad Sourceright, who was interviewed for the study suggests that companies view internal and external talent from a unified perspective. “Our customers don’t perceive the contingent workforce to be hired help,” he says. “they perceive them to be a reflection of our brand.” 

Orchestrating workforce ecosystems requires collaborative cross-functional management of interconnected groups. It’s a total talent approach to getting the work done in ways that align with company goals and values. You can learn more in MIT Sloan Management Review. Then explore other Talent Trends from Randstad Sourceright. 

about the author

As chief executive of Randstad Enterprise, Mike Smith intentionally drives a culture of innovation and collaboration across our Enterprise businesses to build long-term client relationships with the world’s largest corporations. He consistently brings Randstad's “tech and touch” thinking to client conversations to solve complex talent challenges and create sustainable business value and agility.

Profile Photo of Mike Smith