Dell Technologies will require all employees living within an hour of an office to return to the office five days a week, starting March 3.
The company’s CEO Michael Dell announced the policy shift in an email to staff on Friday, stating that the hybrid work model will be retired on that date.
Employees living farther from an office will still be allowed to work remotely, according to Business Insider.
The company emphasized the importance of in-person collaboration, claiming that even with advanced technology, direct human interaction remains the most effective way to communicate and solve problems quickly.
Dell’s move goes along with the trend of major companies, including Amazon and JPMorgan, changing back to full-time office work after extended remote periods.
Dell had already required its global sales team and some other departments, such as manufacturing and engineering, to return full-time in September.
The decision was made after leadership observed positive impacts from increased in-person work, including enhanced collaboration and energy in the office.
As the new policy rolls out, Dell is expected to provide further details on exemptions and office space accommodations for employees. The company had previously faced challenges with logistics, including limited desk space and parking for returning workers.
