According to a new study from Singapore-based workplace design consultant firm Space Matrix and US-based design firm Interior Architect, flexibility and hygiene are the two most important factors for employees returning to the office.
The research found that 63% of US and 60% of Asia respondents said it was essential for companies to address a phased re-entry strategy as well.
Additionally, the majority of the 2,500 respondents ranked the ability to have a work-from-home option moving forward as number one.
As far as the most missed factor in a remote working arrangement was face-to-face interactions with colleagues. Some added that collaboration has become trickier to accomplish since going remote.
“The survey by Space Matrix and Interior Architects has brought about interesting insights that guide conversations with our clients around the future of their workplaces,” said Su-San Tan, Director of Workplace Strategy and Insights.
The survey also provides a look into how companies should plan to find a balance between at-home and in-person work. Organizations need to plan on addressing these issues in order to adapt to the changes that come with the future of work.