It may seem like these ideas come straight from science fiction movies, but realistically, technology is allowing employees to spend more time working remotely, aided by some very advanced tools. From 2005 to 2012, teleworking has increased 79.7%. By 2016, it’s estimated that there will be 3.9 million teleworkers in the United States.
With fewer office spaces needed, furniture like cubicles has seen a steep decline in sales; to the tune of 13% in the past thirteen years. New offices will focus on comfortable digs, with a focus on transparency, hospitality, and sustainability. In the future, offices will most likely focus on “telepresence,” which involves employees remotely interacting at the office via webcams and computer screens. Telepresence not only connects employees across the nation, but it cuts travel costs immensely. Companies like HSBC have reported saving thousands of dollars and months of time by integrating telepresence into their workspaces.
