return to work: hybrid workplace
Navigating through the hybrid workplace with smart building apps and smart lockers.
Flexible & Smart Offices for Hybrid Workers
In the latest installment of Leadership Perspectives, a series from Comfy, we loved how much importance was placed on using data to navigate the return to work. In fact, we found the entire conversation between Elisa Rönkä and Mark Miller exploring the new ways to work to be very enjoyable and we thought we would, respectfully, add our perspectives:
“The relationship with the office has forever changed. We don’t miss the office; we miss being around our co-workers, our customers and our partners.”
As the traditional workplace transitions into a flexible model, employees will become “hybrid workers” that have the option to choose where to work on any given day. The freedom will force companies to rethink how they plan, design, and function as a business. Since employees won’t have a “home base” when they do go into the office, it’s crucial to still provide a place for your employees to securely store personal belongings.
Personal storage is often overlooked and/or neglected as a part of the equation – creating a seamless, consistent way for employees to keep their belongings safe and be able to potentially exchange goods with colleagues safely and easily. Using the same employee id badge and/or phone app or mobile credential across all locations and even coworking and/or customer locations. Global locations with different access control systems all being handled by the locker system — seamlessly. Handling visitors easily, with the same process that invites them to the building.
Not only are these lockers easily integrated into your existing system, but the real-time data allows you to gain insight into how the lockers are being used in the office. The Comfy article simplifies the importance of data by suggesting:
“The only way to manage this transformation is to measure everything, turn that data into information, and that information into insights and actions… Every company will go through a series of course corrections in their journey, and those adjustments will be driven by data, information and insights.”
We continue to stress the point of the ability to iterate, adapt and learn as we go. In order to be a successful business, you need to have a flexible plan in place — your locker strategy should be no different. Here are some examples of the flexibility that the smart lock software provides:
- Shift from assigned to unassigned with a few clicks in the software
- Switch between day-use and exchange of goods or package delivery on the same locker bank
- Add visitor lockers to accommodate after hour social events
- Get a return on your investment by charging a locker rental fee
Flexibility is key and your lockers should easily support your workplace strategies.
“Smart building technology will play an increasingly important role as workplaces transform, focusing on both sustainability and improving the “in office” experience for employees.”
Offering the best technology for your employees will help them feel empowered and in control of their workplace experience. As they maneuver through the hybrid workplace, it’s crucial to deliver a streamlined process that puts them first. Smart building apps are an all-in-one management software that offer reliable data for managers and employees. As companies integrate smart building applications into their offices, employees can use that technology to access workplace neighborhood occupancy and make decisions on where the best place to work is and figure out which locker bank to choose based on that location.
“The intersection of workspace design, technology and culture”
MetraModo lives in the ‘intersection of workspace design, technology and culture’ – it’s not just about technology and providing smart lockers that integrate into the overall employee experience – but rather shifting the perception of lockers overall. Designing creative and unique looks for lockers that help support the culture and drive impactful spaces and experiences. Check out this sell sheet about some of our features and ideas.
