The Monday blues is something most of us have experienced at some point in our working lives, as we return to work from a relaxing weekend and dive back into a job we probably hate.  New research from Lehigh University highlights how this ‘Monday effect’ can impact productivity.

The research focused on supply chain performance, and found that when operations are shut down over the weekend, the difficulties people have in re-engaging with work on Monday morning can cause significant performance issues throughout Monday.  This can result in delays in shipping orders.

Poor performance

The researchers examined some 800,000 transactions recorded over a 12-month period from the US General Services Administration to try and uncover the performances achieved each day of the week.  The data revealed a clear fall in performances on Monday, with fulfillment of orders typically taking nearly 10% longer than on other days of the week.

The analysis reveals that backlogs would often build up over weekends, which would then have to be worked through on Monday morning so that the orders are processed and shipped to customers.  The re-adjustment back into the workflow from workers after the weekend also required some time, during which errors were more likely and work was generally less efficient.

It’s a phenomenon that the researchers believe most supply chain managers are largely oblivious to.  Greater awareness can lead to policies to overcome it, whether that’s scheduling fewer meetings for Monday or actively trying to put more effort into ensuring workers are upbeat and productive on Monday.

They might also consider making better use of technology, such as automated order processing systems, which can be expected to improve performances on Monday by up to 90%.  The authors believe that better use of technology could increase complete order fulfillment by 71% and reduce shipment errors by 80%.

“Technology is more helpful in substituting for labor when humans are more prone to making mistakes,” the researchers explain. “Computer-to-computer links avoid potential human effects resulting from the weekend break.”