Location

Many discuss the possibility of companies distributing their workforce across smaller ‘satellite’ offices, offering the advantage of reduced travel times and less susceptibility to illnesses. Companies like Facebook have already started this transition. Satellite offices also facilitate the social interactions many are missing compared with remote working.

With a transition to increased remote working, many highlight the opportunities this may bring for both employers and workers. Location may no longer restrict employment, increasing the potential talent pool, while offering greater flexibility for workers, who may choose locations with reduced living costs or close to friends or family.

Some believe that with the potential increased cost of city offices, due to social distancing and land value, coupled with a reduction in office size we may see a migration of the office to suburban locations. Potentially utilising vacant commercial properties within towns and highstreets and offering shorter commute times and reduced living costs.

The discussion brings forward the many advantages and disadvantages of working from home. It considers the various impacts some may struggle with such as childcare, schooling or sharing homes alongside sub optimal conditions like poor wifi connections.

Many highlight the increased perceived productivity and flexibility of working hours, additional time with loved ones and socialising, alongside saving money on commuting and work-clothing.