Philip Ross, the founder and CEO of UnGroup, says that the workplace will merge new digital technology and physical spaces. He says employees are disengaged in the workplace due to expensive facilities.
Ross explains that offices will find a new way to organize space that creates a dynamic and flexible environment that provides room for working, meetings, wellness, and social interaction.
“Across almost all organizations we find on average that about 50% of desks are in use every day,” he said, explaining that most workers sit based on their position in the company.
The future workplace will integrate organization based on activity-based working and “un-corporate” offices that promote innovation, attract talent, and are cost-efficient.
Workplaces will begin moving away from administrative positions and closer to collaborative teams, as supported by data from Microsoft 365.
Real-time working will reduce internal email and is being adopted by corporations like Microsoft and Facebook.
He envisions workplaces being supported by technological advancements, such as 5G and more, that allow for “fantastic methods of connecting across distance.”
Ross further describes the future workplace as a “physical, social network” rather than thousands of desks.
For example, Boston Consulting Group in New York has transformed from a conservative, traditional environment, to a seemingly cool hang out spot complete with wireless internet, cafes, and graffiti-laden walls.
Generation Z will expect a digital workplace, according to Ross. They will come into the workforce looking for a productive environment that focuses on employees’ well-being.
He also predicts that sedentary work will become an issue for employers, but everyday movement, whether it be walking or simply standing, will become an expectation in the workplace.
The next generation will expect extravagant designs in the workplace, such as Salesforce Tower in San Francisco that is completely wrapped in LED video displays.
Ross also believes that major companies will create employee apps where people can schedule lunches, car sharing, and other subtleties that create a sense of community.
