Hybrid working vs. interior architecture and algorithms that slow people down

Architects and developers are designing offices in such a way as to make them more attractive to the hybrid workforce. Workspaces are designed to resemble high-end living rooms in flats, encouraging flexible, multi-functional spaces, balconies and terraces. Sofas, armchairs, coffee tables, TV screens and fireplaces are increasingly popular in interior design. Change is needed because, in 10 major US cities, the average occupancy of offices by employees is around 50% of pre-pandemic levels. According to the Gallup Institute, employee engagement at work in 2022 fell for the second year in a year’s row.

In a bid to maintain work-life balance,  Indian technology company – SoftGrid Computers Pvt Ltd has developed software that reminds employees to go home at the end of their shift. “Your shift time is over. The office system will be closed in 10 min. PLEASE GO HOME!” – a message with this content is displayed on their computers.

Are algorithms already making employees redundant? In a survey conducted in January this year, 98% of 300 HR leaders in US companies said that in 2023, software and algorithms would help them make decisions about dismissing employees. In Capterra’s survey, 70% of HR managers admitted that software-determined productivity was the most important factor in assessing who to lay off. HR algorithms can also calculate who will likely leave a company and why.