Rethinking the future of work after the pandemic

THE pandemic has triggered a massive shift in global work patterns. We've learned new behaviours, adopted new technologies, and adjusted to new ways of working. We've also come to a deeper understanding of the fundamental role of place in how we work, especially how we work together.

Organisations around the world are rethinking the future of the workplace based on experiences and learnings from the past year, with a particular focus on the well-being and connectivity of their teams.

Collectively, we are reimagining the future of work on a global scale, with the physical office continuing to play a central role in creating more connected, equitable experiences that benefit people, organisations, and their surrounding communities.

Four insights in particular are defining the new workplace :

• The role of the workplace and office buildings are evolving.

Work and place have become uncoupled, redefining the office as the best place to bring people together - especially for those whose jobs rely on in-person collaboration or specific spaces or shared resources. Physical and virtual experiences must be fully integrated since digital systems will continue to shape a seamless level of connectivity and personalisation.

• Culture, community, and collaboration are at the core of the new work experience.

The fundamental role of the office is shifting to become a place that brings people together to collaborate, to build personal and professional relationships, and to connect with a company's unique business, mission, and purpose.

New behaviours, technology, and policies will be required to allow flexible and virtual work to thrive, while also supporting coaching and mentoring and more equitable and inclusive experiences.

• Pre-pandemic trends are accelerating.

Choice, autonomy, health, and well-being have become paramount for individuals and teams to perform at their best. From health checks and touchless security to improved air quality systems, owners and users are focused on healthy buildings and experiences. Outdoor spaces are increasingly becoming part of the workplace environment, with open facades and retrofitted rooftops providing additional work settings.

• Flexibility and adaptability are critical for a hybrid workforce.

A new hybrid workforce, working both at the office and remotely, is an opportunity to fix the pre-pandemic issues of the workplace, and to explore new real estate strategies.

Office buildings will increasingly get smarter to enable office-to-home connectivity and anticipate evolving tenant needs. New workspace approaches must be more responsive to rapidly adjust to new ways of working with flexible spaces and furniture for newly emerging work patterns.

• The writer is regional managing principal, Asia-Pacific & Middle East, at Gensler