In a recent survey conducted by NCG, nearly two-thirds of UK businesses are expected to demand more frequent office attendance from their employees.
The survey, which included 1,002 senior decision-makers across various UK businesses, revealed several key insights into the evolving expectations for workplace presence and the importance of technology in modern office environments.
The survey results indicate that 59 percent of senior decision-makers plan to increase the frequency of employee office attendance compared to the past year.
This shift underscores a growing emphasis on in-person interactions and collaboration, which many believe are crucial for business growth.
Advanced technology in the workplace
Networking and event opportunities emerged as a top priority when selecting a new workspace, with 31 percent of respondents highlighting their importance. Additionally, 65 percent of those surveyed emphasised the necessity of advanced technology in the workplace to facilitate networking and collaboration.
However, the survey also identified significant shortcomings in the current office technology infrastructure. A quarter of the respondents (24%) reported dissatisfaction with their mobile or online platforms for booking meeting rooms and registering guests, while 19 percent expressed similar concerns regarding platforms for communicating with other members or learning about events.
Thomas Proctor, CEO of NCG, commented on the findings: “After years of remote working following the pandemic, many businesses are now insisting that their employees return to the office at least some of the time. What’s clear is that business leaders believe in-person interactions and collaboration are vital to their growth.
“The technology on offer in workspaces must, therefore, be of the highest standard, allowing businesses the freedom to connect without limitations. The fact that our research highlights that the technology laid out across an office building is of the highest importance to senior decision-makers shows investing in industry-leading solutions that are efficient and easy to use is essential.
“Landlords and operators must make installing the best technology a non-negotiable if they are to meet the demands businesses now have for their office space. By using the best in class technology solutions, they can help landlords and operators set themselves apart in an already saturated market.”
As UK businesses navigate the post-pandemic landscape, the emphasis on increased office attendance and superior technological infrastructure is clear. The survey highlights the need for workplaces to adapt to these new expectations to support effective collaboration and networking opportunities.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
