How Working Remotely Will Change More Than Work

The Impact of Commuting0:01:06

Commuting is a major source of stress, impacting physiological health and well-being. Long commutes lead to longer working days, less time at home, reduced exercise, and a higher risk of separation for couples. In the US, 25 million workers spend over 90 minutes commuting daily.

A Case Study: SK Telecom0:02:25

Since February, SK Telecom employees, including Park Jong Han, have been working from home or local offices. Jong Han, who previously spent three hours commuting, now appreciates the quality time saved and the increased motivation. Initially, the lack of distinction between work and rest was challenging, but employees have since adapted.

The Sudden Shift to Remote Work0:00:29

The Coronavirus pandemic has forced a rapid and largely successful transition to working from home. While the circumstances are challenging, remote work offers benefits like a more content, motivated, and productive workforce.

Flexible Working: Past Perceptions and Real Benefits0:04:26

Before the pandemic, flexible working was a growing trend, though some managers resisted it due to concerns about control and productivity. However, research suggests that flexible working can actually improve productivity if managed effectively, leading to happier employees with more autonomy over their schedules.

Benefits for Employees and Employers0:05:26

Flexible working allows employees to avoid rush hour and eliminate commutes entirely. For employers, studies show that remote workers often work 48 minutes longer, replacing commute time, benefiting organizations that manage these processes effectively.

Implementing Effective Flexible Work Policies0:06:03

Organizations need clear processes and procedures for flexible work to ensure consistent expectations and fair treatment across departments. Managers must also be flexible in their approach, recognizing that remote work suits some individuals more than others.

Productivity and Employee Retention in Remote Work0:06:59

A Stanford study found a 13% increase in productivity and a 50% decrease in turnover for remote employees. Despite this, half opted to return to the office. A Bain & Company survey showed mixed results, with some benefiting from focus and no commute, while others struggled with a lack of a dedicated workspace.

The Rise of Hybrid Work Models0:07:41

A hybrid model is likely to emerge, combining work-from-home days for solo tasks with office days for collaboration and meetings.

Remote Work's Impact on Urban Living0:07:54

The shift to remote work is leading some white-collar workers to leave cities for more space, but urban planner Alice Shay notes that factors like access to services, family, and culture still tie people to urban centers. Cities may change in how they are used, with potential for reconfiguring streetscapes to prioritize pedestrians and public transport.

Building More Equitable Cities0:10:08

The pandemic presents an opportunity to build more equitable cities, especially for essential workers who are geographically bound. Increased urban porosity could foster micro-entrepreneurship and new services. Mobile healthcare could also be distributed more widely.

The Polycentric City and 15-Minute Cities0:11:15

Remote work could accelerate the development of 'polycentric cities,' where residents can work, live, and socialize locally. Concepts like Paris's '15-minute city,' where daily necessities are within a short walk or bike ride, reduce transit times, emissions, and provide more equitable access to services.

Future of the Office and Co-working Spaces0:12:00

Companies will need to support workers in new ways. Instead of traditional commutes, employers might sponsor co-working spaces closer to employees' homes, allowing for a mix of office and local workspace attendance. There will be a range of new work arrangements as confidence in remote work efficiency grows.

Permanent Shifts in Work Culture0:12:48

Serviced office brands like Regus are seeing increased activity in commuter hubs outside major cities. House builders in the UK are seeing developments outside London driven by home office working. A survey indicates over 90% of people don't want to return to the office full-time post-COVID. Companies like Twitter and Facebook are making remote work permanent for many, signaling a long-term change towards an on-off relationship with the office that could lead to happier, more productive workers and more livable cities.

The Role of Commuting in Work-Life Separation0:03:58

While eliminating commutes can be beneficial, the journey to work also serves as a crucial transition between personal and professional lives, providing 'me time' to recalibrate.