The growth of agile or remote workers (those who are able to complete their work away from the standard office, 9-5 set-up) is huge. Workplace for some has shifted from a physical space to a process.
Undeniably, it is fuelled by advances in technological capabilities (more of which we’ll discuss in the next blog). It is now possible to be connected to organisational networks, complete most requirements of a working day, and correspond effectively simply by having access to Wi-Fi and a smart-phone.
However, more important than the capabilities existing to facilitate agile working, there is a desire for immediacy which is driving its uptake. Immediacy is no longer a novelty but mandatory. Just look at Uber: long gone are the days of waiting half an hour for a taxi. It is a reality that we can begin our journey to a distant location within 2 minutes of wanting to be there. One step away from teleportation if you ask me…
Indeed, recent research highlights that around a 1/5 of their respondents expect an answer within 10 minutes of having asked a question. Today’s agile workers expect to be connected and empowered always, moving projects forward at their own pace, in their own place.
Further to this, the mix of work and pleasure (aptly nicknamed Bleisure) is arguably more readily available for agile workers. It simulates a privacy or atmosphere that empowers an individual to work from a relaxed space, while remaining interconnected with their business network to facilitate collaboration.
Acknowledging the drivers of independence, and managing the uprising of agile working should be embraced by working environments. Space-pod understands that the fluidity of working environments ranges from a traditional office set-up to individuals working remotely on an iPhone as they catch a bus.
Embracing this versatility launches us into an exciting future of frictionless workspace.
Next blog: Artificial Intelligence – professional assistant or domestic distraction?
