The rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown introduced a high level of isolation into each of our lives, especially for regular office goers who had to transition their way into the new normal rather swiftly. As the lines between work and home began to blur, technology served as a dependable medium that enabled us to engage with colleagues utilizing varied methods. These introductions helped companies to reach out to and comfort employees at a time where stress levels were at an all-time high and employee motivation was on a steady decline, given the sudden shift in lifestyle.  

In fact, many organizations have begun to reevaluate their real estate portfolios and rethink their approach to the concept of ‘office space’. However, as time passes, working from home has started to show its downsides i.e. isolation, burnout and monotony aside from the recurring infrastructural and logistical gaps. In light of the same, managers have begun to seek alternatives to the current situation that are in adherence to the safety protocols. One idea that is rapidly gaining prominence is the decentralized model, in which companies are looking to move away from a single centralized office space in favor of multiple, smaller satellite offices that are strategically located in new and emerging markets.

The decentralized approach has become a viable option for addressing the challenges associated with working from home. Organizations have seen the merit in this and are now readily partnering with flex workspace providers for sustainable solutions to work from home and work near home. 

Let’s look at why more and more organizations and employees alike are seeing the merit in this new way of working.

Collaboration is the essence of all organizations

While digital tools are enabling seamless performance of tasks while working from home, the workforce now longs for an environment that fosters collaboration which is not being met by working in silos/isolation. As time passes, employees wish to step out of their homes and relive the memories of water cooler conversations and tea breaks that not only leads to collaboration but also might spark innovative and intellectual ideas that help the organization grow. 

Coworking centres as decentralized workspaces are the hub of collaboration, networking and growth.

Working and networking with people from all walks of life results in cultural and collaborative growth. Hence, organizations are looking at decentralized workspaces wherein employees can collaborate and grow while also fueling the organization’s growth.

Different job roles, Different requirements

The pandemic forced organizations to overnight adopt work from home despite the job role or sector. Most employees were quick to adapt to this change while others faced difficulties to manage the same due to varied job profiles or requirements. Sending out work related couriers, applying for visa, faxing or photocopying documents is an additional trip to the market while also managing the work for the day. These simple tasks have turned into a tremendous burden as said facilities are not available at the stretch of a hand. 

Shared workspaces are equipped with best in class hospitality and concierge services to facilitate easy access and smooth functioning of day to day activities and much more. Round the clock access to work spaces, meeting rooms, contactless services and multi-cuisine restaurants while maintaining the highest standard of hygiene provides a synchronized work environment which is both smart and safe.

Savings on Real Estate costs

Ever since the restrictions were imposed, many offices are running on minimum capacity while others are completely vacant due to work from home. Since the pandemic is far from over, organizations are looking to optimize costs by letting go of their office spaces and partnering with coworking spaces.

Today, even the most traditional enterprises are seeing the advantage in partnering with coworking space providers to adopt the distributed workspace model, which allows for de-densification as their workforce can operate remotely from a flex workspace near their home.

Now, more than ever, individuals are seeking the experience and the feeling of an ‘office’ space, after being isolated for months. They’re looking forward to leaving their personal problems behind when entering a workspace and align their focus towards work, which will in turn enhance organizational productivity as well. Given that it is too early to assess when things will return to the way they were, decentralized workspaces are emerging as the preferred way of working amid this new normal.