A personal perspective on flexible work environments

The conversation around remote and hybrid work structures has grown recently, challenging the traditional in-office model. Significant data points to the efficiency of remote work, notably the increase in productivity during the pandemic.

A study by Prodoscore, as highlighted in Business News Daily, showed a 47% rise in employee productivity in 2020 compared to the previous year. This uptick coincides with the massive shift to remote work, presenting strong evidence that remote working can maintain or even boost productivity levels.

As the leader of a technology services firm, my perspective sums up our clients’ approach to hybrid work and what we’ve experienced at Edafio. My insights are derived from real experiences and not merely hypothetical observations.

Before March 2020, the discussion of remote work versus in-office work was less predominant. Most of us were used to the routine of commuting daily. But with the pandemic came the necessity and, subsequently, the realization that remote working wasn’t just feasible but, in many cases, preferable. Tools and technology, like those Edafio provides, became essential for such operations, turning skeptics into believers.

The lingering controversy isn’t whether remote work is practical; it’s more about personal preferences, especially those of the company’s top-tier leaders. I’ve observed that many decisions regarding workplace setup often derive from the tips of a company’s senior leadership, sometimes even overruling what might be best for employees or the company’s clientele. It’s surprising how often biases or financial commitments, such as existing office rent contracts, influence these decisions.

Our approach at Edafio has been one of adaptability. We acknowledge the proven productivity of remote work. Therefore, we prioritize our associates’ comfort and preferences while ensuring our service quality remains impeccable. While fully remote work poses challenges like potential strains on company culture or team dynamics, we’ve found them addressable with periodic in-person meetings, team outings and special events. These interactions, in fact, become even more cherished in a largely remote setup.

The geographical distribution of our team, with some relocating out of state during the pandemic, further highlights the tedium of a fixed office requirement. We’ve even onboarded talent from different states without imposing relocation, and their productivity has been on par, if not superior. I find the flexibility refreshing. Shuffling between different work environments offers an energizing change of pace and often enhances my productivity.

In the evolving landscape of work, adaptability is essential. The metrics, such as the mentioned productivity boost, reiterate that embracing flexibility isn’t just about accommodating employee preferences; it’s a strategic move to ensure business continuity and growth in the modern professional world.

Kenny Kinley is the CEO of Arkansas IT services firm Edafio Technology Partners. The opinions expressed are those of the author.