Prepare for 2017 because there will be brisk innovation in the way business is done. Advances in technology and the millennial impact on office culture will continue to influence workplace trends.
Office design and furniture
Changing work styles, technology and culture will drive how we use our office spaces in 2017. More emphasis will be placed on office design and the functional use of office furniture. The work environment will be decluttered and free of distractions. The trend will be towards shared spaces with multi-functional furniture. Unassigned private alcoves will be available when needed.
Rise in collaboration between colleagues
Lowering or removal of physical barriers will break down the walls in communication and will result in greater teamwork between work colleagues. More opportunity for engagement will be provided, which will lead to more productivity.
Digital technology
Technology is growing with lightning speed and the integration of digital technology will continue to increase in 2017. Wearable technology and smart devices, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of things (IoT) and mobile devices will increase mobility and open up possibilities for employees to work remotely or from anywhere within the office. Smart devices will be worn on-the-go and keep employees connected with the digital world.
Work-life balance
Wearable technology devices, such as Fitbit, will be used to keep track of the movement, eating habits and sleep activity of employees. Studies have shown that healthy employees have lower health care costs and fewer lost workdays. Managers will be trained to recognise signs of overwork in employees and be proactive in preventing problems due to work stress.
Flexibility
A more flexible management style is envisaged which will allow employees to work independently without the pressure of having to be at the office at certain times. This management style will be necessary to attract and retain top talent. Flexibility will benefit both the employer and the employee, and at the same time accomplishing the need for operational efficiency.
Employee engagement
A key aspect for management in 2017 will be super transparency at all times. More importance will be given to employee engagement to improve business efficiency. An “engaged employee” is defined as one who is fully absorbed by and enthusiastic about his or her work and so takes positive action to further the organisation’s interests.
Social media marketing platforms
We are now living in a social media dominated world, and businesses will take full advantage of it. However, this means that businesses need to know what to do to capitalise on it and use the various platforms to their advantage. In 2017, efforts will be transferred from social networks to social message applications. Companies will be able to consider this as another ecommerce option.
Automation of payroll
The use of modern payroll software will automate the way employees will get paid. It will have built-in features such as time, attendance and leave management systems and will help to drastically increase productivity.
Sources
https://project-management.com/7-workplace-trends-youll-see-in-2017/
https://www.biztimes.com/2016/11/28/first-look-2017-workplace-trends/