The trend in office environment continues to shift towards a more flexible and collaborative approach. Instead of closed off cubicles and artificial lighting, companies now understand the importance of a more open plan concept, natural light, and that not every employee works best on a 9-5 work schedule.
Human Interaction
While remote work has become an increasing trend for many, to help those who have families or to save on commute time, there has been a bit of backlash against it. Large companies, such as IBM, Apple, and Google are encouraging more interaction between people instead of just a computer screen.
Human relationships spark creativity in business. While technology is a large part of a worker’s day, phone calls, video conferencing, and in-person meetings are still an important part of a successful business.
Artificial Intelligence
There is increasing use of artificial intelligence for certain repetitive jobs. Chatbots are the latest trend, taking care of what used to be an entry-level position. A chatbot is an amazing tool that can be used for online customer support, streamlining business procedures, answering employee questions about benefits. AI can mine data and even act as a personal assistant.
Flexible Work
Employees report more workplace satisfaction when they are able to have flex days, unlimited time off, or more control over their work environment. With increased happiness comes more productivity.
Employers have become more understanding regarding the importance of mental health and physical health in relation to their employees’ work. Those employees who feel financially or physically stressed end up taking more sick days and costing a company more money. Burnout leads to higher employee turnover, which then causes more work in the hiring and training process to find a replacement.
It is in the company’s best interest to retain and retrain current employees with improved perks and supportive policies.
With more flexibility required, we are seeing the continuing rise of the freelancer. These workers want greater work/life balance and the freedom to live wherever they choose. This demand is increasingly common, as is the trend of combined work/life spaces, where companies build or use commercial space for both office and residential uses.
No matter what your office environment, it is worthwhile to be interested in any trends that make workers more content and more productive.