Telegraph workplace monitors: Newspaper to remove controversial devices after one day of use
The Telegraph has decided to remove under-desk sensors installed to monitor staff activity, after just one day of use, City A.M. has learned.
In a message seen by City A.M., the newspaper's management said the devices were being withdrawn due to feedback from staff.
The internal message said: "In the light of feedback we have received from staff today, it has been decided to withdraw the under-desk sensors immediately. We will be looking at alternative ways to gather the environmental sustainability data we need and will keep staff in touch with any new proposals."
The sensors, which were installed over the weekend, were to be used to monitor whether journalists were at their desks.
The devices chosen by the Telegraph were made by "automated workspace utilisation analysis" firm OccupEye, and use heat and motion-triggered sensors to track activity.
According to a statement from OccupEye, the sensors "monitor the presence of people within space, but do not identify individuals – a key factor in the popularity of the technology within the UK public sector, with a vast number of NHS and Local Authority users delivering redundancy-defeating efficiency improvements".
The installation of the sensors drew criticism in the press and on social media, as well as among Telegraph staff.