Top 10 emerging trends for the office of the future

The usual questions

HUBB’s client seminars often field questions regarding the future of work. Specifically, what is the emerging outlook for our offices, and which are the trends that will influence them?

Here are the top 10 trends I believe will gain traction, and add value to our offices in the years to come.

1. Workplace Strategy.

Increasingly, companies are seeking to clearly define their Workplace Strategy. Described as the relationship between people, place, technology and culture, Workplace Strategy is critical to providing clarity and ensuring corporate success. This increased focus has resulted in a greater adoption of alternate workplace strategies such as Activity Based Working (ABW). Indeed, 49% of Australian companies with overseas offices are looking to adopt ABW in the future. *Source: Telsyte Australian Digital Workplace Study 2015; n=4242.

2. Establishment of work communities, not hierarchies.

Research suggests an increasing trend toward egalitarian offices, with organisations promoting shared space in preference to personal property and desk “ownership”.

3. Brand authenticity.

With authentic brand promotion directly relating to increased client attraction, organisations will look to create a culture of brand/consumer transparency and demonstrate this in the marketplace.

4. Coaches, not Bosses.

The next generation of staff will respond to coaching, not directives. Management styles must evolve to meet this trend or risk becoming redundant.

5. Freelancing/outsourcing.

Companies will utilise overseas and freelance providers to reduce on-site outlay and focus internal resources.L

6. Less cubicles, more space.

Work spaces will be redesigned to suit relevant tasks, with organisations abandoning the rigidity of cubicles in preference of collaborative clusters.

7. No keyboards.

Human command via voice-to-text will continue to expand its reach, fostering freedom and encouraging flexibility.

8. Communication via‘Wormholes’.

Not black holes in time and space. Instead, the creation of virtual windows, connecting offices globally.

9. Legitimisation of working from home.

The many gains of flexible working will be both acknowledged and actualized as commuting proves increasingly detrimental to productivity

10. Wellbeing.

Companies will implement wellbeing programs into their business processes, acknowledging the tangible associated benefits.

The world of work is changing. How will your organisation respond?