Post-pandemic offices aren't fit for collaboration – report

There’s a battle of will going on in our global offices. In one corner, we have anxious employers, eager to get their people back behind their desks. In the other, there are equally nervous workers, reluctant to give up their remote working perks. But in the end, something’s got to give. And a recent report from Microsoft has uncovered a growing resistance to outdated workplace tech.

Research found that 83% of employees find themselves in the same office environment as before the pandemic, with only 31% saying their organisation invested in technology to improve collaboration. Studies have already underscored how the improvement of physical workplaces is essential in luring back remote workers. A previous report from Unispace said that Gen Z employees' willingness to return to the office is limited by how their physical workplaces are set up, despite recognising that they are more active in the office.

Read more: Gen Zs prefer physical workplaces - despite 'digital only' status

In Microsoft's report, the respondents also said that office work is better suited for socialising with colleagues (57%) and strengthening relationships with co-workers (65%). This presents employers with a unique challenge.  

"Employees clearly need more enticement back to offices than an employer mandate. The question for leaders is clear: Are our offices fit for today's workforce and will they really want to come back?" said Microsoft’s Alan Slothower.

What can employers do?

Microsoft's research suggests that employers need to "reimagine" their workplaces to ensure that they are fit for the employees they're asking to come back.

"Our research points to a clear need for businesses to not just redesign their offices, but truly reimagine them for a hybrid future," Slothower said.

Read more: Are employers failing to utilize the power of the office?

The report found that 36% of employees feel they achieve less in the office than at home, 32% were troubled by the cost and length of time for commuting, and 25% were frustrated with the reduced time spent with loved ones. When asked what they want in their new workplaces, the respondents answered:

• Strong Wi-Fi (49%)
• Good air-conditioning with temperature control (47%)
• Flexible working hours (46%)
• Good transport links (43%)

Read more: Nine in 10 employers want workers back in offices by 2023

"When the world shifted to remote work a couple of years ago, organisations focused simply on ensuring workforces remained operational by providing people with devices and tools to work from home," Slothower said. "Now, as organisations and employees experiment with various types of hybrid models and workers head back to the office once more, business leaders must balance the need for continued productivity with employee expectations of the office – and ensure it is fit for purpose."