Jan 3, 2024
4 mins read
Future of Work
Hybrid companies often leverage flexible workspaces to support their operational model. The use of flexible workspaces allows them to accommodate varying work preferences, enhance collaboration, and optimize resources, as well as offer true flexibility to their employees.
As experts and research confirm that hybrid work is not only here to stay but is the future of work, companies are using office space utilization software to determine how much their physical space is being utilized, and then seeking out alternative options that could potentially save them money and meet the need for flexibility from their employees.
With that in mind, here are 5 ways hybrid companies are tapping into the power of flexible workspaces.
For companies who are downsizing their office spaces, the hot desk option, most often found at coworking spaces, offers employees an office-type setting outside of their homes. Additionally, they have the opportunity to connect with colleagues in a professional space. The other benefit to hot desks is that they can be available on an on-demand basis, so companies (and teams) don’t need to necessarily commit to a flexible workspace membership. This can help curb spending and provide helpful insights into how often teams need this option.
Many hybrid companies are scheduling their employees’ in-person time for collaborative sessions since while much of the individually-based work can easily and comfortably done at home, the types of work like creative brainstorming or group projects, are better done in person.
And because many physical office spaces were not originally designed to accommodate the need for predominantly collaborative spaces, it’s much easier to book on-demand flexible workspaces for specific team needs. This is a much more affordable and convenient option than redesigning an expensive existing physical space.
If companies are using smaller office spaces, seeking out extra or overflow meeting rooms (or conference spaces) at a flexible workspace provider is a viable option. Coworking space operators offer a myriad options for companies, many of which are technologically equipped to help connect teams working all over the globe. These rooms can often be booked by the hour, day, or week, and can once again help companies keep their costs down. Ensuring that meeting rooms are properly equipped with the highest level of technology to accommodate team members who might be based all around the world is costly.
Some flexible workspaces offer virtual memberships or options for customers that give the company a professional presence, like a mailing address and package handling, along with reception, in some cases. While this is not necessarily a necessary option for larger companies, small business owners might appreciate this simple offering.
Many companies have decided to shutter their physical offices altogether and instead use “hubs” at various flexible workspace locations across the country (or the globe) where their teams can work together on their “in-office” days.
Many coworking spaces offer the option to create a dedicated workspace, complete with the company’s branding, which makes this option more desirable for companies who still want to have a strong workplace culture emphasized by the physical workspace. But even without this option, companies can greatly cut costs and find collaborative spaces (as well as day offices) that truly meet the specific needs of their teams, based on their location.