There is a certain degree of fixation with looking for patterns and predicting what the future of the workplace will look like. In actual fact, in Facility Management, much the same as with fashion, we are influenced to a greater or lesser extent, depending on our own style, job and, in all honesty, body. The same clothes do not suit all of us. Every company is different, each CEO has their own ideas and way of thinking, and the fear of making mistakes as a result of change is latent. There is no point saying “this doesn’t work, but, well, everyone has done the same so…” The risk is very high and the impact on the business can prove to be irreversible.
To aid decision making, we have published a study of office space trends in Spain and Portugal. The opinions of the heads of more than 300 companies yield interesting results, enabling readers to reach their own conclusions. Two documents have been generated, one for each market, in its corresponding language. One characteristic of the report is objectivity, a key aspect of the way FMHOUSE operates.
One third of the answers indicate that the way space is used will constitute the most significant change, whereas furniture was the least voted feature. 80% percent of the respondents consider that technology will be, or is already necessary for these workspaces to be functional. Likewise, the same proportion believe there will be lower workspace density, a reduction in the requirement to be physically present, greater flexibility and, strangely enough, the same opening hours. 78% are of the opinion that the amount of space will stay the same or be reduced, with a substantial decrease in the number of square metres occupied by international companies.
The report is available in our library, and the version with segmentation has been sent to those who participated in the study. Since only one person per company answered the survey in order not to distort the results, should you be unsure as to whether your organisation participated or not, feel free to request the information from us. If you would like to participate in future studies, contact us so that we can include you.
