Remote work software companies have faced one major issue in recent years: replicating the impromptu connection that happens in the office.
That’s why many are looking to expand their services beyond just virtual conferencing apps. Companies within the industry want to close that gap in an effort to stay afloat in the hybrid work era.
For instance, Zoom recently unveiled its new all-day business platform Zoom Spots that will launch next year.
“People, especially the ones who are working from home, they don’t feel they’re part of the group,” said Oded Gal, Chief Product Officer at Zoom. “We’re missing all of these conversations that used to happen where you could talk about your personal life. And a lot of actual business decisions are made in the corridors.”
Digital offices have become the next frontier for the workplace software market, where organizations take the tools that build camaraderie in digital spaces, such as video games, and apply it to business operations.
Startups like Roam and Kosy currently offer such a space, giving colleagues a chance to hop on and work in an immersive atmosphere. Whether conducting a presentation, attending a meeting or simply socializing, these platforms hope to provide some sense of togetherness in a distributed workplace.
“The post-pandemic workforce will be hybrid moving forward, and there’s a stronger desire to create sustained connection and team unity,” says Adam Preset, an analyst at Gartner.
