These days it is arguably more important than ever for companies to engage in effective strategy execution. Not only are the economic conditions tough at present, but the level of regulation facing enterprises is also high. By utilising business execution software, companies often find it easier to remain on the right side of the law.

Indeed, proposed changes to parental leave and flexible working announced recently by the government may make such technical resources even more important if they come into force.

Last month, the coalition administration launched a consultation on plans to introduce a range of policies from 2015 as part of its drive to create a modern working environment among firms.

If the suggestions go through, mothers would have 18 weeks maternity leave and pay in one block around birth, then each parent would have four weeks of leave and pay, which would have to be taken within the first year, and an extra 30 weeks of leave would be available to either parent, of which 17 would be paid. This time off could be broken into blocks between parents.

Meanwhile, the right to request flexible working would be extended to all workers who have been with their employers for 26 weeks or more.

If the changes are made, there may be implications when it comes to firms’ strategy execution and the importance of effective and sophisticated business execution software may rise further.

One organisation that has criticised the plans is the Federation of Small Businesses. It suggested that the ideas undermine the government’s commitment to slashing red tape.

National chairman of the organisation John Walker remarked: “Freeing businesses from the shackles of regulation is meant to be a key government commitment. Yet only days after announcing the welcomed employment law review, a raft of new employment burdens were announced.”