In the wake of the global pandemic, the world witnessed an unprecedented shift in the work paradigm. Companies, big and small, transitioned to remote work, turning homes into offices overnight. However, as we adapt to the new normal, many organizations now recognize the value of the traditional office setup and are gradually transitioning back.
The Value of Office Space
While remote work offers flexibility, it lacks the predictability of a structured office environment. An office has a set schedule, which brings a sense of routine and normalcy that’s often missing in a remote setup.
Accountability is another critical aspect. While we’ve all adapted to digital check-ins, there’s something about physical presence that boosts accountability. It’s about being a part of a community, working together towards common goals.
Visibility is also crucial. Being in an office allows for spontaneous interactions and discussions, fostering creativity and innovation. These unplanned meetings by the water cooler or cafeteria often lead to the best ideas.
The Office Experience: An Irreplaceable Aspect
The office experience extends beyond just work. It’s about culture, collaboration, and community. Offices are places where relationships are built and company culture is experienced firsthand. They’re spaces that foster collaboration, encourage open communication, and facilitate immediate feedback.
Moreover, being in an office can significantly enhance new hires’ onboarding experience. It gives them a real sense of the company culture, allows them to establish connections with their colleagues, and helps them understand their roles better.
The Rise of Hybrid Work Models
Recognizing these benefits doesn’t mean discarding the advantages of remote work. Many companies are now adopting hybrid work models, where employees split their time between home and office, two or three days a week. This approach aims to balance the flexibility of remote work with the structure and collaboration of an office environment. However, the hybrid work model cannot fully realize the benefits of remote work, such as access to a wider talent pool and the elimination of commuting time.
Soma as a Solution
Is it possible to replicate the office experience while working remotely? Soma is a powerful space that can help companies keep remote work while providing employees with the benefits of a traditional office environment.
Over the past two years, Soma has gone through numerous trials and errors to ensure that the behaviors and communication methods used in offline offices can be replicated in Soma as closely to real-life as possible. This has been achieved through the feedback and experiences of over 10,000 employee users across more than 450 companies.
Soma is designed to feel like a real office, which means there are opportunities for casual interactions throughout the day. For example, you might bump into a colleague in the hallway or pantry or see a few colleagues enjoying small talk nearby. Soma’s office space can lead to small talk, which can help build relationships and create a more social work environment.
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