How can offices prioritise the needs of the future workforce?

Amidst the physical changes to office design over the last seventy-odd years, the role of offices has remained static. But Covid-19 turned the world as we knew it upside down, taking the workplace along with it. Remote working has become ubiquitous, and in the post-pandemic landscape, the hybrid model is likely to endure. Even now, the world of work continues to change, driven by technological advancements, globalisation, and evolving social dynamics. As we move further into the digital era, the impact of these transformations on individuals, businesses, and society at large becomes evident.  

Core priorities of modern work 

As technology continues to advance and working dynamics evolve, the office of the future could look very different from today. Predicting precise details is challenging, but several features must be at the heart of any office program going forward. A focus on flexibility, enabling full technology integration, the possibility of reimagined workspaces, and data-driven decision-making must all be at the forefront of the future workspace. And importantly, employee well-being must be prioritised. 

Working format built around three key goals 

Employees prefer the choice and flexibility that come from a hybrid model, and many enterprises recognise and accept this. But across businesses and industries, the hybrid format will vary. Three expectations will be priorities for enterprises in adopting their chosen working format: 

• Increased productivity 
• Cost savings 
• Talent acquisition and retention 

Enterprises face new challenges 

There is plenty to feel optimistic about in the future workspace. But with change comes challenges, and with more employees working at least partially remotely, enterprises will face a string of new challenges. 

For years, the workplace was built around encouraging coworking and effective communication. At home, this can be harder to attain. Enterprises will need to prioritise seamless collaboration between employees to ensure a rich working culture, as well as to nurture inclusivity and engagement. 

Managerial adaptation and technological infrastructure will also be a challenge going forward. Hybrid work offers many benefits, but enterprises must embrace both the gains and the obstacles to ensure long-term success in a rapidly evolving world. 

The technologies shaping the future of work 

Without the technological leaps of recent years, hybrid work would not be feasible. Technology will continue to enable an optimised hybrid work environment, facilitating seamless collaboration, communication, and productivity. The tools that will shape the future workplace include cloud computing, project and task management software, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), communication and collaboration tools, cybersecurity solutions, and virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR). 

Futuresource Consulting’s upcoming report, The Future of Work, evaluates how the workplace will shift to meet the needs of the future. Contact Ben today to find out more at ben.thrussell@futuresource-hq.com.  

About the author

Chris Pennell

Chris Pennell is a Principal Analyst for Futuresource Consulting, leading Futuresource’s research across the Connectivity and Services practice. His research focuses on emerging technologies transforming enterprises' use of AV solutions.

Chris's recent research covers areas such as the shift to IP-connected devices, the use of managed and cloud-based services, and the impact of Pro AV solutions on the Future of Work. Working with various vendors and end users has enabled Chris to explore and build knowledge of the innovative ways enterprises use AV technologies to address ongoing challenges. Outside work, Chris is happiest helping raise his young family and supporting his local Scout troop.

About the author

Olivia Lowden

Olivia Lowden is responsible for the long-form content, press, and partnerships at Futuresource. Prior to her career at Futuresource, she completed an MA in Creative Writing at the University of East Anglia, demonstrative of her lifelong love of words.