What Valuable Insights Do We Gather During Our Observations?

12th November 2026

Every work study tells a different story. By observing how tasks are carried out and analysing the data, we can identify what’s working well, where challenges exist and what changes could make a meaningful difference.

Our recent work studies have generated valuable insights into the way businesses operate. In this round-up, we explore some of the key learnings from these studies and what they reveal about the opportunities to improve productivity.

Our observations

The impact of excess stock on productivity

Having too much stock in store can create more work than retailers realise. When stock levels exceed what a store can comfortably accommodate, colleagues spend longer handling, moving and managing it, taking time away from other important tasks.

During a recent study with a grocery retailer, we found that reducing in-store stock levels had halved the time spent on stock-related tasks. We’ve also seen retailers struggle to find space for incoming stock, resulting in tasks taking considerably longer than benchmark times.

It highlights the importance of getting stock levels right. Having more stock available doesn’t necessarily translate into better availability if managing it is too difficult and time consuming.

Are stock counts creating more work?

Accurate stock data is essential for effective retail operations, but the processes used to maintain it also need to be efficient.

While radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology offers significant opportunities to reduce the time spent on stock management, there are improvements retailers can make to existing processes too. We’ve observed several businesses where repeated stock counts are compounding stock file accuracy errors rather than resolving them.

This raises an important question; are current stock-counting processes genuinely improving accuracy, or simply creating more work? Reviewing how these tasks are carried out can help retailers identify opportunities to make stock management more efficient and effective.

Rethinking the role of the store manager

The responsibilities of store managers are changing. As retailers look to reduce administrative workloads and manage tighter resource budgets, managers are increasingly being drawn into general operational tasks.

But what impact does this have on their ability to manage and lead? When more time is spent completing everyday tasks, less is available for supporting colleagues, overseeing performance and focusing on wider business priorities.

It may be time for retailers to take a fresh look at the role of the store manager and consider how their time could be better allocated. Understanding where managers spend their working hours is an important first step towards making sure their skills and experience are being used effectively.

Can self-checkouts cope with peak demand?

Self-checkouts are becoming an increasingly popular choice for shoppers, but are retailers equipped to manage the demand they create?

Our observations show that while self-checkouts can comfortably manage customer flow during quieter periods, the picture changes at peak times. Once these tills reach capacity, queues can quickly build if retailers are unable to open enough assisted tills to accommodate additional customers.

With Christmas trading approaching, this is an important consideration. Retailers need to understand how customer demand changes throughout the day and ensure their checkout provision and staffing levels can respond accordingly. Getting the balance right can make a real difference to the customer experience and the efficiency of store operations.

Uncover your business’ productivity potential

Understanding how work gets done is the first step towards improving it. By turning observations and data into actionable insights, businesses can identify where changes will have the greatest impact and make informed decisions about their next steps.

At ReThink, we are your trusted partner, working alongside you to improve performance and move your business forward.

Our experts can help you uncover opportunities, quantify their potential and turn insights into practical improvements. 

Get in touch to find out what a work study could reveal about your business.