Lykkers, we all know that because of the pandemic there have been quite some changes all around the world, in particular in workplaces. The shift in work practices after the pandemic has prompted a reevaluation of how people work.
Many employees realized that they could be more flexible in their roles, no longer needing to rely on a fixed location or set hours.
As a result, concepts like desk sharing and remote working have gained popularity. These practices offer unique ways to improve productivity, collaboration, and overall work satisfaction.
What is Desk Sharing?
Desk sharing refers to the shared use of workspaces, typically in environments like coworking spaces, where employees can work in flexible settings. These spaces have become increasingly common in both urban areas and smaller towns, providing professionals with the opportunity to meet, collaborate, and exchange ideas in a more relaxed and innovative environment than traditional offices.
Desk sharing allows for optimized workspace usage. Instead of everyone having their own dedicated desk, multiple employees can use the same desk at different times throughout the day. This reduces the need for large office spaces and fosters better interaction and idea exchange among workers. Many coworking spaces also include shared desks, phone booths, relaxation areas, and open meeting spaces, enhancing productivity and well-being. Such spaces can be within a company’s office or in external locations designed for professional gatherings.
What is Smart Working?
Smart working, also known as remote working or flexible work, is a model that allows employees to perform their tasks away from the traditional office setting. Employees can choose when and where to work based on their schedule, as long as it aligns with their contracted hours.
This work model is now widespread in many organizations. According to a report from the Politecnico di Milano, approximately 7% of employees in Italy worked remotely, with a 40% increase in remote work adoption over the past two years.
Smart working can be done in coworking spaces or at home, allowing employees to share space or have their own workstations. This model encourages collaboration and idea-sharing while providing employees with flexibility in how they manage their work.
Benefits of Desk Sharing and Smart Working
Both desk sharing and smart working offer various benefits to enhance workplace productivity and collaboration:
- Efficient Space Use: Desk sharing allows multiple employees to use the same physical space at different times, which leads to better office space utilization and cost savings.
- Increased Flexibility: Smart working enables employees to work from any location, improving their work-life balance and reducing commuting time. This flexibility can also boost motivation and job satisfaction.
- Enhanced Communication: Both desk sharing and remote work encourage better communication among employees, as they can collaborate more easily regardless of physical location. This can improve team dynamics and foster stronger relationships within the organization.
However, it’s important to note that these work models also present some challenges, such as managing work tasks remotely, feelings of isolation, and potential difficulties in building a strong company culture.
Challenges of Flexible Work Practices
Implementing flexible work arrangements is not always a straightforward process. Companies must first assess whether remote work is suitable for their employees and if they can manage their time independently. Smart working may pose risks to employee health and safety if not managed properly.
Employers are responsible for providing the necessary support, training, technology, and safety measures for remote workers. Furthermore, the legal framework surrounding remote work is still evolving, and many countries, including Italy, still need to adopt a flexible approach to these new work practices.
The Role of Technology in Flexible Work
For desk sharing and remote working to be effective, advanced technology is crucial. Employees need the right software and hardware to ensure smooth workflow and collaboration without constant IT support. As a result, companies have increasingly relied on user-friendly, smart technology to help employees work independently and efficiently.
Employers should also invest in training employees on how to use these technologies effectively. Proper training ensures that workers can perform their tasks with minimal assistance, contributing to increased efficiency and autonomy.
Training for Health and Safety
One of the main concerns regarding flexible work practices is employee health and safety. Proper training on how to work ergonomically and take regular breaks is essential to prevent health issues. With remote work, there is a risk of employees blending work time with personal time, leading to burnout or stress.
Unlike the structure of an office, where breaks and social interactions are scheduled, remote workers may struggle to manage their time, resulting in longer working hours. To mitigate this, clear goals and task management are necessary to ensure that employees focus on achieving results rather than simply putting in hours.
Desk sharing and smart working offer numerous advantages for both employees and employers, including increased flexibility, cost savings, and enhanced collaboration. However, they also come with their own set of challenges, particularly in terms of managing tasks and maintaining employee well-being. To fully embrace these new work practices, organizations must invest in technology, training, and proper safety measures. By doing so, they can ensure that both desk sharing and smart working can contribute to a more productive and satisfied workforce.
