TCS Deployment Policy: This arises during a period when the growth rate for the IT industry is stagnating and declining, attributed to a complicated demand landscape characterized by uncertain macroeconomic factors.
Tata Consultancy Services Ltd. has revised its talent deployment policy, establishing a requirement of 225 days of billing for all employees, effectively limiting bench time to 35 days annually.
In the IT services sector, the term “benching” refers to a situation where an employee remains on the company payroll without being assigned to active client projects or other billable activities. They are considered to be “on the bench” as resources ready for new projects. Minimizing bench time and maximizing billing hours serve as strategies to enhance margins and utilization rates.
“At any given time, associates must have been allocated for a minimum of 225 business days within the past 12 months; otherwise, necessary due diligence and appropriate management actions will be implemented,” stated an internal company email.
This occurs during a period when the growth rate for the IT industry is experiencing stagnation and a decline, attributed to a complicated demand landscape characterized by uncertain macroeconomic factors. TCS’ revised policy was implemented on June 12. Furthermore, the policy emphasizes that it is the employees’ main responsibility to actively connect with the Resource Management Group to request allocation, even before their release date, and to take the initiative in seeking out opportunities.
All freshers are also required to be actively deployed. “All new joiners are expected to have an allocation from the very first day of joining the organization. Should there be any deviation, such associates must immediately connect with the relevant RMG for guidance,” the email stated.
Throughout the duration of employment, an associate’s performance and suitability for roles will be assessed continuously. Considering the nature of the role, which may depend on customer requirements, associates will be required to pass assessments mandated by the organization, the policy further indicated.
TCS is also discouraging repeated short allocations to various projects, and in such instances, an HR inquiry will be initiated. The company cautions that if employees do not adhere to the deployment policy, actions will be taken.
“In the event that an associate fails to comply with the stipulations of this policy, the organization retains the right to impose disciplinary action—including termination of service, in accordance with the organization’s disciplinary action framework,” the email stated.
