Top Predicted Workplace Trends for 2019

When we reflect on the workplace ten years ago, it’s difficult to comprehend how far we’ve come.  Modern day working life is no longer just about the business you work for, its about the experience you get from working for that company and the culture it fosters.  Additionally, advancements in technology have given us a flexibility and freedom never previously experienced.

Its both important and exciting to look to the future, to understand where we’re going, so we can keep abreast of this moving feast, to ensure we retain our competitive edge.  We have made a list of some of the most prevalent top trends, projected to be influential this year to help keep you ahead of the curve.

Wellbeing

Wellbeing continues to be top of the agenda for forward thinking workplaces this year.  Initiatives designed to reduce workplace absenteeism, ergonomic solutions, such as sit stand desking (height adjustable desks) to encourage movement during the working day, replacements in high sugar food and drink as well as promoting exercise.  We predict this will continue to be a focus for the modern workplace as the drive to improve health of our workforce continues.

Height Adjustable Desks | http://bit.ly/2VAWEIF

Mobile Working

Modern technologies bring better connectivity and flexibility for workers and workspaces.  The introduction of super-fast broadband, speedy new laptops, cloud-based systems and ever improving mobile phone technology allows the workforce to work wherever they are, no longer tied to one location.

We predict an uplift in the focus towards workspaces that are flexible with available space which better supports mobile working.  Areas that provide co-working environments with designated remote working pods, communal meeting zones and unassigned seating areas will be the future focus. 

Mobile Printers | http://bit.ly/2ZOVp80

Relaxation Areas

It is predicted that by 2020, millennials will make up over half of the workforce (Jansen 2016), this shift in demographic will bring a new set of priorities which will shape our workspaces.

Amongst these priorities is the trend towards relaxation spaces within the workplace, where employees can recharge and unwind throughout the working day.  Furnishing include large cushions, beanbags, table tennis tables, yoga mats, coffee machines and smoothie makers.

The trend is already showing signs of growth as home comforts become more common in the workplace and will continue to gain traction in 2019 and beyond.

Breaktime | http://bit.ly/2wlm4xB

Bean Bags | http://bit.ly/2UOeDHa

Data Security

GDPR came into force in May 2018, which has had a significant impact on the way businesses store and process sensitive data.  Gone are the days when keeping client information in unlocked filing cabinets and invoices in folders on desks was the norm and rightly so.  Data security is now high on the agenda and the consequences of non-compliance should not be ignored.

This change is driving the culture of data security, new technologies are emerging to better secure the data we currently hold.  These technologies will help us process data using compliant systems whilst ensuring the flow of information within an organisation is not inhibited.

There’s no doubt this culture will continue to gain momentum in 2019, as high-profile data breaches and their related financial consequences hit the news.  This will raise this issue further up on every company agenda. 

Integral Courier Dual USB| http://bit.ly/2WgVtLF

ID Guard | http://bit.ly/2J9tutl

Data Quality

As awareness of data security grows, we become more conscious of the quality and relevance of the data we hold.  Increasingly companies are analysing the stored data, to understand what is truly valuable and what needs to be discarded (compliantly of course).  As we cleanse and improve the retained data, we can become more effective and relevant with our communications.

This will continue in 2019 as we develop more engaging and effective ways to communicate with our customers and colleagues. 

Privacy Filters | http://bit.ly/2V51A9f

Artificial Intelligence

New computer systems are being developed that can have the ability to learn, meaning that the use of artificial intelligence in the home and the workplace is becoming more common place.  Virtual assistants run simple tasks, searching for information on the internet, loading playlists, performing simple administrative tasks and drafting documentation.  Chatbots learn and understand speech, helping both staff and customers enquiries.  Robots are used to improve efficiencies within warehouses.  Artificial intelligence will shape our workspaces considerably in the future as automation takes over a wide range of repetitive and semi predictable tasks.

Technology Products | http://bit.ly/2jzAzbo

Source | Spotlight – Shaping the Future of Workspaces