The hybrid workplace

In the past few decades, technology has shifted how we live, work and interact with others. This mobile era has changed everyday things like banking and shopping, to how we design and configure our office spaces.

So, it is no surprise that technology will be a key factor in how we get back to the office post-sheltering in place. And, while human behaviours (wearing masks, taking care to socially distance, etc) will be the most important short-term elements in minimising a new surge in COVID-19 infections, technology will again be the great enabler of what’s possible for the new normal – supporting things like density planning and behavioural goals – all in a seamless and secure manner to keep the workplace safe and employees connected.

But what happens when we look longer term – after that initial push back to the office? How do we enable a hybrid work environment where employees move seamlessly between working from home and returning to the office for in-person collaboration and meetings? How to foster workplace culture when the experience shifts to this new model? And the role of the network infrastructure as workplace design once again evolves to accommodate this new normal. Because one thing is clear – connectivity, and the technologies that support it, will be even more important in setting the foundation for the hybrid workplace. 

The consensus seems to be that the return to the office and beyond will be a three-phase journey.