Over the past couple months of the COVID-19 pandemic, many workers learned that our jobs could be done from home. And not only has this remote work provided workers the flexibility they’ve been craving, but it has also been saving companies a significant amount of money. Since workers’ productivity at home is on par with their productivity at the office, many people wonder if physical office spaces will eventually become obsolete. But there are several reasons why physical offices won’t completely disappear.
Fostering Environment and Familiarity
Technology has allowed many people to stay connected with their co-workers and leaders when working from home. But virtual collaboration still doesn’t compare to working together, in-person. Without physical workspaces, we lose that sense of community only given through the energy exchange of human connection. Unlike a person’s home, the office is a shared space. It gives us a neutral space for honest conversation and problem-solving, as well as innovation and teamwork.
Though many people enjoy the comforts of working from home, some may prefer working outside their homes in a designated workspace. An office setting is a familiar work environment, especially for older generations who may be more hesitant to do their jobs virtually. Because most homes were built with the intention of being homes – a safe space to relax and let go of the stresses from the outside world. That is why over the years, people have been encouraged to leave work on time and not to bring work home.
The commute between work and home is a factor that should not be overlooked when it comes to deciding whether or not offices will exist in the future. Time spent commuting helps workers not only to unwind and disconnect after a day at the office, but also arrive at work in the next morning with a refreshed mind and body. Without a work-life balance, one is prone to fatigue, low productivity, and even a lower immune system. And without a physical distinction between one’s work and home, workers may find it even more difficult to find a balance between the two.
Transparency and Tradition
Trust comes from transparency. Without a physical workspace, people may feel a sense of disconnection. A physical workspace has a permanent structure, unlike the elusive internet. And its structure symbolizes longevity. Though fully virtual organizations can also endure time, their online platforms can be easily clicked away from and forgotten about.
Overall, there is much more to workspace than its infrastructure. Through centuries of war, disease, and advances in technology, workspaces have adapted to meet the needs of the modern workforce. So, who’s to say they won’t continue to adapt and exist in 2020? Ultimately, while virtual work may save time and money, people want to connect with other people in a shared physical space.
