Company Introduces 'Productivity Nudges' That Physically Tap Employees When They're Idle
The 'Boss-In-A-Box' device sits on desks and periodically pokes workers with a small robotic finger.
MegaCorp Industries has introduced the 'Boss-In-A-Box,' a productivity device that physically taps employees on the shoulder when it detects idleness. The device uses motion sensors to monitor desk activity and delivers gentle (and not so gentle) pokes with a small robotic finger when it detects 'non-work behaviors' like staring at nothing, looking confused, or breathing too slowly. One employee said, 'It tapped me 47 times in one hour while I was thinking about a problem. I now have a nervous twitch.' The device also plays audio clips like 'Let's get back to work!' and 'Are you still there?' at random intervals. Employees have started placing the devices in broom closets out of 'solidarity with the concept but hatred for the execution.'