There are two contrasting views on where office employees work best. Amazon is requiring staff to return to the office five days a week, while the UK government supports more flexible work rights, including working from home.

Amazon argues that in-person work fosters better collaboration, while the government ties flexibility to improved performance and loyalty.

Studies offer mixed findings. Microsoft’s research during the pandemic found remote workers collaborated mainly within familiar networks, reducing opportunities to build new connections. In contrast, a Stanford study found Chinese home workers were more productive, but this was partially due to less time spent commuting.

Despite Amazon’s push for office work, hybrid working is on the rise in the UK, with 27% of workers splitting time between home and office. The UK government supports hybrid work for its productivity benefits, while Amazon remains skeptical, believing that in-office work enhances collaboration.

Ultimately, the future of work seems to be trending toward hybrid arrangements, despite differing corporate policies.

Igor Spirido

Source: www.bbc.com