COVID-19 saw the world do a complete “about-face” in how we work. Lockdown made working from home a necessity. And even as people return to their offices, workspaces seem unfamiliar in so many ways. Now, we work with masks on, sanitise our hands several times a day, and have our temperatures checked at regular intervals.
Two years ago, these concepts would have seemed completely foreign to most of us. But we have come to accept that, at least for now, this is the way things have to be. Many of us are asking, “Will we ever go back to ‘normal’, or the way things were?” In short, it’s probably quite unlikely.
Beyond COVID and into the future
If there is one thing COVID-19 taught the vast majority of the world’s workforce, it was how to adapt – and quickly. And in doing this, the world (almost accidentally) completely reinvented the way we work – in just about every industry imaginable.
Most notably, digital communication and remote working proved to be effective for many. In terms of cost, companies have been able to reduce internal resources and overheads, and employees have saved time and money previously spent on commuting.
While the coronavirus may (we hope) be on its way out as vaccinations are administered across the UK and the world, we have proved quite successfully that there are different ways of working that could be more effective in the long-term.
The office of the future
Companies can turn their offices into desirable destinations bringing people together, where the focus can be on collaboration, team working, creating ideas and solutions building company culture, socialising and enjoying work life. We can move away from the office/factory model of endless desks of employees working alone inputting data. The truth is companies can save money by allowing their employees the freedom to work – at least partially – from home. Remote and hybrid (or a combination of working from the office and home) provide a better work-life balance for employees, and we all know that well know saying ‘A happy employee is a productive one’.
Besides these new ways of working, though, it is definitely important to note that the majority of us don’t want to go through another crisis anytime soon. So, even for companies who choose to go back to working from traditional offices, things are unlikely to ever be the same.
Hygiene has become a priority and many of the measures that have been put into place to curb the coronavirus can curb other viruses, too. Social distancing, caution and cleanliness will remain in everyone’s best interests for years to come. COVID-19 is far from the only virus or illness that can be spread through lack of hygiene or close human contact. And the pandemic has made us all hyper-aware of our safety in public places. So, chances are, sanitisation, masks and distancing practices at work are likely to stay with us a little bit longer.
Love where you work
At Sagal, no matter what the future holds, we aim to help create a world in which everyone loves where, when, and how they work. We work with architects, interior designers and fit-out companies alike to create inspiring spaces by supplying beautiful, functional furniture solutions from our selected factory partners.
The future of work is here. And we want it to be inspiring and comfortable. We do more than just supply office furniture. Work should feel like home, no matter where you are. Work smart, be inspired and embrace the future. It has arrived! Browse our selection of innovative office solutions here.