The modern workplace has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, and the concept of a traditional office space is evolving. The rise of hybrid work models, combining remote and in-person collaboration, has become a prevalent trend. In this dynamic environment, companies are exploring innovative solutions to optimize their workplaces, enhance collaboration, and ensure a seamless experience for both in-office and remote employees.
Understanding the Hybrid Landscape
To delve into the intricacies of optimizing a workplace for a hybrid environment, we turn to experts in the field. Kasper Ullits from Sign In Workspace and Justin from Sign In Enterprise are joined by Brian Phillips from Molina Healthcare to share insights into solutions and risk management applications tailored for the hybrid workplace.
Sign In Workspace's Perspective: Navigating the Hybrid Landscape
Sign In Workspace focuses on solutions designed to cater to the specific needs of a hybrid workplace. Kasper emphasizes the importance of tailoring solutions to individual customer requirements, as not all hybrid setups are the same. He emphasizes the need for open-minded discussions about the purpose of having an office in a hybrid scenario.
"When you are a hybrid and more or less in the office, what do you really want to have your office focus on? Having an open dialogue about the purpose of the office is super important for companies to truly adapt to the hybrid model," says Kasper.
Sign In Workspace’s approach revolves around empowering employees with the right tools, fostering transparency between colleagues, and leveraging data to make informed decisions about office setups. Kasper highlights the significance of workplace technology in providing employees with the tools they need to find the best resources when they are in the office.
Sign In Enterprise's Approach: Navigating Risks and Compliance
Sign In Enterprise, formerly Traction Guest, specializes in applications built to address complex risks and compliance needs across large organizations. Justin sheds light on the key elements of flexibility, configurability, and integration in their solutions.
With a focus on workplace safety, compliance, and risk management, Justin discusses the challenges posed by the hybrid work model. "Hybrid really seems to be the direction that we all are going, but the difficulty lies in navigating what hybrid means, as it differs for everyone," says Justin.
He emphasizes the need for companies to be specific about the purpose of their office space and the importance of clarity in defining goals for hybrid work. Justin also points out the shift in the security approach, considering employees as visitors in a more dynamic, on-demand environment.
Making Informed Decisions in a Hybrid Setup
As companies embark on the journey of optimizing their workplaces for hybrid work, several crucial considerations come to the forefront. Kasper and Justin share their insights on key factors to ponder:
Purpose-Driven Offices
Kasper encourages companies to engage in open-minded discussions about the purpose of their office spaces. "What's the purpose of having an office if you are in a hybrid setup? Having that open-minded talk is crucial for companies to adapt effectively," advises Kasper.
Understanding the specific needs and expectations of employees in the office is paramount. Whether it's collaboration spaces, meeting rooms, or quiet zones, tailoring the office environment to meet these needs ensures a productive and engaging workplace.
Security and Safety in a Hybrid Environment
Brian, the Director of Protection Services from Molina Healthcare, emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift in the approach to safety and security in a hybrid work model. He notes the challenge of treating employees as visitors, considering the dynamic nature of their presence in different locations.
"With the shift to hybrid work, employees are more like visitors. You have to change your systems and processes to adapt to this new reality," says Brian. Mobile credentials, real-time vetting, and integrated security systems play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of employees across various locations.
Data-Driven Decision-Making
Both experts underscore the importance of data in optimizing the hybrid workplace. Kasper highlights the significance of metrics on office usage to adapt and refine the office setup continually. "Please have the data in place. It will be a super important driver to lean towards doing the next step," advises Kasper.
Brian echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the need for data integration across different systems and facilities. Leveraging data not only helps in monitoring security threats but also enhances the overall employee experience by providing personalized and proactive solutions.
Technology Solutions for the Hybrid Workplace
In the ever-evolving landscape of hybrid work, technology plays a pivotal role in creating a seamless experience for employees. Kasper and Brian shed light on technology solutions that have proven instrumental in navigating the complexities of a hybrid setup:
Workspace Booking Solutions
Kasper introduces the concept of purpose-driven access to different buildings based on the task at hand. With the ability to book desks and meeting rooms, employees can have a purpose in the building, allowing seamless access through QR codes or similar authentication methods.
Mobile Credentials
Brian highlights the growing significance of mobile credentials in the hybrid work environment. As physical access cards become less frequently used, mobile credentials offer a convenient and secure alternative. Issued on-demand and working only during specific times, they enhance security and reduce the risk of loss or duplication.
Integrated Risk Management Applications
Sign In Enterprise's solutions focus on integrated risk management, combining threat data, compliance checks, and real-time vetting. By providing a comprehensive view of risks and compliance needs across different locations, companies can ensure a unified and secure approach to employee safety.
Adapting to Change: A Continuous Process
As companies navigate the complexities of the hybrid work environment, one common theme emerges – the need for adaptability. Kasper notes that many companies are adopting a beta mode for their offices, constantly iterating based on data and employee feedback.
"The change that is going on is growing more rapidly than what we have seen in the past, and I do expect that we will see it more often that changes will happen as we learn during this whole path," says Kasper.
The journey to optimizing a workplace for hybrid work is not a one-time effort but a continuous process of adaptation and refinement. As companies leverage technology, data, and purpose-driven strategies, they pave the way for a future where the workplace is not just a physical space but a dynamic and responsive ecosystem that fosters collaboration, innovation, and employee well-being.