TCS Tightens Work-From-Office Policy: Stricter Guidelines Implemented

Mumbai: Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), India’s largest IT services provider, has introduced a stricter work-from-office (WFO) policy, reinforcing its commitment to a structured in-office work environment. This move comes as many competitors continue to adopt hybrid work models.

The updated policy focuses on improving operational efficiency, fostering a positive workplace atmosphere, and aligning employee compensation with business performance.

Key Changes in TCS Work-From-Office Policy

1. Emergency Leave Flexibility

• Employees can designate up to six days per quarter as personal emergency leave.
• Unused emergency leave can be carried forward to the next quarter.

2. Exception Entries and Network Issues

• Employees can submit up to 30 exception requests per entry to address space constraints.
• Network issues can be reported for up to five entries at a time.
• Requests must be submitted within 10 days, or they will be automatically rejected.
• Backdated WFO entries can be submitted only for the last two working days.
• Missing WFO entries for a given month must be submitted by the 5th of the following month.

3. Prohibition on Backend Access and Bulk Uploads

To enhance transparency and accountability, bulk uploads and backend modifications in the attendance tracking system have been banned.

TCS Implements Five-Day Work-From-Office Rule

TCS has become the first major Indian IT company to enforce a five-day workweek at the office, moving away from hybrid models that allow two or three days of remote work. However, HR Head Milind Lakkad has indicated that the policy may be reviewed once operational stability is achieved.

Focus on Workplace Culture

Lakkad emphasized the need for a positive work atmosphere, urging managers to provide constructive feedback and foster employee motivation. This initiative aims to boost job satisfaction and overall productivity.

Variable Pay Update

Following TCS’s latest quarterly results:

• Entry-level employees will receive full variable pay.
• Mid- and senior-level employees’ variable pay will be linked to business performance, encouraging alignment with company goals.

This revised policy signals TCS’s firm stance on returning to office-based work while balancing employee needs with business objectives.