Future Trends in the Workplace

Future Trends in the Workplace Emerging Technology, globalization and demographic changes continue to havea significant impact on our workplace. In a recentarticle in the Baltimore Sun,John A. Challenger,chief executive of Challenger, Gray Christmas, a Chicago outplacement firmidentifiessome workplace trends of the futurethat could transform office culture. He begins by saying, Teleconferencing could end business travel. Audio, video and Web conferencing continues togrow significantly as these toolsbecome lessexpensive and more available. Soaring energy costswill also have an impact on reducing business travel and the potential for increased productivity with less time spent travelling. No health benefits. Not asurprise to anyone. On a positive note, employers are introducing health and fitness programs. A four day work week in the office becomes standard. It will help in dealing with soaringgas prices andwho doesnt want a threedayweekend? Globalization will lead to an exodus of specialized workers to job-rich areas.Not to mention the effects of skills and talent shortages. Challenger goes on to forecastfurther trends including, the evolution of cubicle life to open spaces and common areas,free agents representing 40% of the U.S. work force by 2012 and no more corporate offices.The emerging workplace flexibility and the need for companiesto save costs on real estate arekey factors.