Michael Hewlett “We envisage there will be intense debate over the coming years on how technology could potentially replace ‘physical’ options around work locations. We are already seeing this heated discussion in higher education with the University of Cambridge moving all lectures online for the upcoming academic year. Others such as the University of Bolton are operating business as usual with stringent social distancing in place. The crux of the argument here is similar to those raging in office environments. Can institutions and employers provide adequate pastoral and well-being support remotely? Can a video call ever effectively replace a face to face meeting for students or staff? Behavioural scientists are suggesting that video calls could replace ad hoc business meetings which could have a dramatic impact on sustainability and our efforts towards climate change. Why jump on a train from London to Manchester (or spend 3-4 hours on the motorway) when a video call could suffice. This will undoubtedly contribute to a better work/life balance for employees.
Technology in CAFM for facilities management could arguably see more FM staff working remotely away from a traditional 9-5 office environment and it will be interesting to see how training and induction programmes can evolve to cope with this change. Service providers who embrace new technologies and new ways of working will flourish in the post lockdown world. The debate will evolve as the issues change after lockdown; a solution in one area inevitably raises questions in others. The organisations who innovate and put their staff at the centre of the decisions will grow and will provide the best services for their customers. It might not seem it now in the eye of the storm, but this change could make the workplace a happier place to be.”
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