Formulating an Alternative Workplace Strategy
As you’ve read on this blog numerous times, the face of the American office is changing rapidly. Thanks to technological advances like cell and smart phones, wifi Internet connections, laptop computers and video conferencing, workers are no longer tied to a specific location. Add to this energy conservation and sustainability concerns and changing workforce demographics, and you’ve got the makings of a full-scale office revolution.
In response to these trends, companies have had to adapt by formulating Alternative Workplace Strategy (AWS). Deloitte LLP, an American audit, financial advisory, tax and consulting company, has designed a program to help smaller companies develop their own AWS.
According to Deloitte, “A robust alternative workplace strategy (AWS) that takes into account physical space design, technology, and HR policies is both a significant driver of portfolio savings and an important component to raise image and attract top talent.”
Benefits of an AWS include:
- Fostering the idea that the role of the “office” is to cultivate collaboration that ultimately results in innovation and speed
- On-demand collaboration using mobile technology tools
- Opportunity for workers to work from a variety of settings, including at home, customers’ offices, corporate sites, on a commuter train, etc.
- A 20-50 percent cost savings by giving up expensive, mostly unoccupied office space
Deloitte suggests a comprehensive approach to AWS, by implementing the following phases:
• Current workplace needs analysis: Review internal information, trends, and financial model; conduct gap analysis; conduct focus groups and surveys; define locations and opportunities; define IT functionality by level and function
• Develop future workplace scenarios
• Solution set development: Develop solution sets for scenarios in real estate, HR and IT
• Business case and implementation plan: Development strategic delivery process and timeline, test financial model, develop communications and change management strategies, develop IT transition plan
The use of a virtual office, executive suite or shared office fits in nicely with virtually any AWS. Call 1-800-933-2482 to find out how executive suites can improve your bottom line and corporate culture.
