In 2023, organizations across the country were laser-focused on return-to-office strategies. But in 2024, a new priority is emerging: transforming and improving the in-office experience.

Our 2024 Workplace experience trends & insights report dives into the evolving dynamics of work, offering data-driven solutions for employers.

Technology: The great facilitator…or the greatest barrier?

Technology’s role in shaping work experiences and environments is undeniable. Our independent research reveals that our relationship with work-related technology is complex. Tech can either be a powerful enabler or a significant hindrance to productivity, connection, and collaboration.

Workplace trends – a few key findings from the report

• The workplace is changing rapidly: There’s been a whopping 900+% increase in fully in-person work arrangements in 2023 compared to 2022.
• Hybrid work challenges: Top struggles for in-office workers are knowing when colleagues are coming in (28%) and collaborating with remote workers (27%).
• Tech frustration is rising: Satisfaction with workplace technology is declining. Only 29% of employees are completely satisfied in 2023, a drop from previous years.
• Focus on ESG: 72% of employees say a company’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) is important to them – a finding that echoes an IBM study reporting that employees are more likely to apply for a job with a company that prioritizes ESG.
• Tech is the biggest hurdle: Employees of all work models (remote, hybrid, and in-person) identify tech issues, collaboration challenges, and communication difficulties as their top work frustrations.
• AI’s potential: 84% of employees see opportunities for AI to improve how they work.

What else? Get the full report.

What can you do about it? Here are some insights and actions

RTO as a case study – Employees need a compelling reason to come to the office. Invest in creating a space that’s superior to home setups and fosters collaboration and productivity. Here’s a handy guide to help.

ESG at the forefront – Workers care about their office’s energy consumption and their company’s impact. Smart office technologies can reduce your carbon footprint and align with worker values. Want to get started? Check out this ESG 101 guide from Metrikus.

Persistent challenges – Employees across work models face similar issues: tech troubles, poor collaboration tools, and communication breakdowns. Prioritize tech that unites employees and supports productivity.

Employees want a better experience – Listen deeply to their needs. Flexibility, great communication tools, and a reduction in apps and tools are top priorities for employees. According to a study by Microsoft, the average human’s attention span is 8 seconds (that’s shorter than a goldfish’s). Invest in tools that put an end to app jumping.

The role of AI and smart tech

Emerging AI solutions can significantly improve the workplace. From meeting summaries to facilitating information sharing and even generating content, AI can streamline work tasks allowing employees to focus on value-driven activities. Learn more about Appspace AI.

It’s time for technology to be your facilitator

Are your tech choices supporting your employees and your ESG goals? Are your communication tools intuitive and fostering connection? Appspace can help. Our workplace experience platform unites people, places, and spaces with powerful tools for digital signage, room reservations, employee apps, intranet, and more.

Ready to dive deeper?

For in-depth analysis, and insights you can action, and to understand how to improve your workplace in 2024, download the full Appspace 2024 Workplace experience trends & insights report.