In a post-COVID world, the phrases “work from home” and “remote work” have become a significant part of organizational culture. Related to this trend is the idea of the metaverse, or that space where work takes place between the physical and virtual desks. If you haven’t heard of the metaverse yet, just wait. History shows that the longer a trend continues, the more advanced technology will evolve to become more effective and more efficient. Tech companies are already moving beyond programs like Zoom and Teams to focus directly on creating virtual, collaborative workspaces that allow people to connect in more advanced ways than ever before. Just as access to real-time data and information has become a part of our personal lives, the metaverse augments the workplace and allows for employees to create, develop, and refine information in the professional world.
It is just as critical to consider the importance of the physical location in the workplace and organizational culture. There will always be elements of work that require a physical presence, but it is the location and accessibility of those locations that will become more crucial as time goes forward. The strategic nature of locating your business is just as important as access to any other resource. Considering the advantages of location, combined with access to virtual assets, will allow well-prepared businesses to adapt quickly and effectively, putting them in line for a more successful future.
As technology further blends the physical and virtual workspaces together, how a company responds to the workforce trends will make for critical choices in future development. Is your company culture adaptable to change? Does it offer employees the resources they need to be successful, wherever they are working? The metaverse is going to continue to expand and evolve. How will your company respond?
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SOURCE:
Harvard Business Review. The Metaverse Will Enhance — Not Replace — Companies’ Physical Locations. Vladislav Boutenko, Richard Florida, and Julia Jacobson. August 16, 2022.
Writing/Research Credit: Christopher Ledvina, UW-Green Bay Business Development Specialist