Flexible-work arrangement

Flexible-work arrangement                     Prasanna Sap

Introduction

The Hybrid working system is an employment arrangement that integrates elements of

remote and in-office work. In a hybrid working system, employees are afforded the

flexibility to work both remotely and from a physical office, depending on their

individual requirements and preferences. The precise structure of a hybrid working

system may differ depending on the organisation and industry. However, it generally

entails a combination of remote and in-person work. This concept is increasing its 

popularity as the ‘new normal’ or the ‘future of the work’.Multi-national companies of 

Microsoft, Google, HSBC, Dropbox, Uber, Twitter,  are practicing this 'new normal' 

work pattern.

Advantages of a proficiently implemented hybrid work model

Hybrid working spaces have several benefits for both employees and employers as well

as society.  (Ben Wigner and Jessica White, Sept 14, 2022)

Hybrid working spaces offer employees the ability to work from anywhere,
providing them with greater flexibility and work-life balance. This can lead to increased 
job satisfaction and improved mental health.
The four basic hybrid workplace modes

According to a survey by Owl Labs, 80% of remote workers reported better work-life

balance, while 43% reported less stress.

Hybrid working spaces can reduce costs for both employees and employers.

Employees save on commuting costs, while employers can reduce office space expenses.

According to a report by Global Workplace Analytics, employers can save an average of 

$11,000 per year for each employee who works remotely part-time.

Studies have shown that remote workers are often more productive than 

those who work in a traditional office setting.

A study by Stanford University found that remote workers were 13% more productive

than their in-office counterparts.

Offering hybrid working options can improve employee retention rates, as

employees value the flexibility and autonomy that comes with this work arrangement.

According to a survey by Buffer, 99% of remote workers would like to work remotely

at least some of the time for the rest of their careers.

Working Together, Together – when teams are located in the same place and meet

up in person for meetings in a shared place.

Working Alone, Together – when teams are in shared spaces but not

collaborating or working at the same time.

Working Together, Apart – when teams are distributed but participate in virtual meetings

Working Alone, Apart – when teams are distributed and individuals focus on work

Disadvantages of a hybrid workplace model

• Not Applicable To All Business Types.
• Increased Dependence on Technologies
• Hardware Needs and Other Tangible Items
• Increased Costs
• Distinction Between Onsite and Remote Workers
• Poor Team Relationships
• Tendency for Micromanagement

1.       

Conclusion:

It provides employees with greater flexibility, improves work-life balance, and can 

positively impact their mental health. It also reduces costs for both employees and

employers, increases productivity and improves employee retention rates. Additionally, 

it can provide job opportunities for individuals living in rural areas, enabling them

to work for international companies from their homes. With its numerous advantages,

it is no surprise that hybrid working is rapidly becoming the preferred work arrangement 

for many organisations, paving the way for a more flexible and dynamic workforce.

 

References:

Ben Wigert and Jessica White (Sept 14, 2022)

The advantages and challenges of hybrid work. Gallop (Online).

Available at https://www.gallup.com/workplace/398135/advantages-challenges-hybrid-work.aspx#:~:text=The%20greatest%20challenges%20of%20hybrid,at%20home%20and%20on%2Dsite.

Accessed on 08th April 2023 

IR team. (no date). Hybrid workplace models that are new normal. IR (Online).

Available at https://www.ir.com/guides/hybrid-workplace-model

Accessed on 08th April 2023

 

Disadvantages of The Hybrid Work Model: https://opensourcedworkplace.com/news/disadvantages-of-hybrid-work-model?utm_content=anc-true

Accessed on 09th April 2023