Restore PLC provides radical thinking for companies currently reviewing and updating their workplace practices.
The Covid pandemic, which finally appears to be slowing down, has had a profound effect in many areas of life. Not only has it delivered pain and suffering at the most basic level of human survival, it has also led to a major overhaul in workplace practices. After the first stringent lockdown rules were imposed by the UK Government in March 2020, business owners, employers and bosses had to think quickly and smartly about what to do next.
Thankfully, this being the 2020s and not the 1970s, there was one huge advantage already in place ‘ advances in technology. Because of our computer-driven world, where individuals can remain in contact with each other despite being thousands of miles apart, many businesses were able to continue almost as normal.
At first, companies believed this change in workplace practices would only be temporary. Bosses assumed that when the pandemic was over ‘ and no one expected it to last this long ‘ everything would return to the way it was, and had been for decades.
But Covid wasn’t an easy opponent to defeat, far from it. And as time passed, it soon became apparent that working from home could be a win-win alternative all-round. Reduced commuting, fewer traffic jams and a potentially better, more flexible work-life balance seemed to be the order of the day.
Many people appeared less stressed than before, although it shouldn’t be forgotten that some industries and employees were badly affected by this change. It certainly wasn’t rosy for everyone. However, for those companies which rely on computerisation, this brave new world offered plenty of hope for change.
The future had already arrived, with some businesses realising that they had ignored this new way of working for years and years. For decades, it seemed, bosses hadn’t trusted their employees to work from home. Yet, now, they had little choice but to accept and embrace this new fast-evolving approach to business ‘ and it was better for the environment and climate change too.
The big problem they faced was what to do with all this additional space that was no longer needed. There was a sudden need for downsizing, and this is where Restore PLC enters the frame.
Radical Thinking
In September 2020, over half of UK directors said they planned to cut back office space as staff started working more permanently from home. Lockdown had resulted in many people embracing homeworking as the default option. And more than four in 10 directors said home working was proving to be just as effective as the previous set-up.
At the same time, the Government’s National Infrastructure Strategy is looking to support a move away from traditional business hubs such as London. A new broadband rollout has been promised to areas previously overlooked by Governments, while bus and bicycle infrastructures are expected to enjoy a makeover. This is dependent on local authorities receiving their expected levelling up funds.
As organisations look to the future, many are devising a hybrid model that combines remote work with time spent in the office. Several studies have shown that employees based remotely sometimes feel less connected with their employers, than those who work at ‘HQ’. Therefore, companies need to strike the right balance to ensure employees still have those interpersonal relationships with colleagues.
As a concept, hybrid working is still in its infancy. Businesses, which have taken out long-term lease agreements on properties, certainly have decisions to make further down the line. Many will be keen to maximise savings on accommodation, while still remaining as efficient and competitive as before.
As companies shift to a new, downsized, office environment, the key will be to discover the best balance between necessary space and competence. Social distancing may also need to be observed over the next few years, to maintain high standards of staff wellbeing.
The future of office space
Many businesses have discovered that the digital revolution has changed their traditional ‘routes to market.’ Thus, their previous structure for sales and customer support may require a complete rethink. And if customers and suppliers are also moving to smaller offices, maybe in totally different locations, then the time has arrived for business owners to review their own strategies.
Practicality of downsizing
There are many things to consider. What are the opportunities that downsizing could bring but, also, what are the barriers which have to be overcome? Time to reflect on current practices and remember that relocation of assets and staff is central to the entire process.
You may need to hire experts in handling the nuances of relocation, with a company’s IT infrastructure at the heart of all decision-making. Don’t forget, there could be a large amount of sensitive data to take care of along the way (keep, destroy or scan?). Documents and files that need to be retained can be stored offsite in controlled environments that offer robust 24/7 security entry systems and CCTV surveillance.
By storing files offsite saves valuable office space. It can even free-up room so you can employ another member of staff. Any document stored offsite with Restore can be returned quickly and securely. By taking advantage of an offsite facility allows companies to approach their document storage more strategically, while enabling teams to work with data more effectively.
The general process of moving location will always create waste. Confidential waste will need to be shredded and, by engaging with a supplier such as Restore, will result in a compliant and efficient way of solving this issue.
What about digitisation?
The digital world of business is forever evolving, so it’s important to review your practices. One solution involves using a digital management system such as DocuWare. This allows businesses to automate the entire process, from capture, to organisation of data, access, collaboration, updating and customisation of documents and files.
Paper-based documents can now be digitised through a ‘digital mailroom.’ This means scanning copies of all mail sent securely via a company’s internal system. With a wealth of options available, why not put your faith in Restore to create the most suitable solution for your business.
Downsizing sustainably
Another key consideration for companies is that any changes they make should be environmentally friendly. It’s all about developing a responsible carbon footprint. This is especially important when removing furniture and IT equipment. These items must be handled responsibly.
Restore provides recycling solutions that will benefit organisations such as schools and charities. This equipment may be usable for many more years. Do not dispose of items unnecessarily. Such items can be stored temporarily if required.
Sustainable shredding is another option for documents and files that are no longer required. Restore are experts in recycling confidential waste, with our objectives firmly in line with the 2015 Paris Accord. Seven years later it is all about following these guidelines to improve a company’s carbon footprint, with regards to ‘net zero’ emissions.
Our solutions
Restore customers come from an array of different industries and regions, such as finance, legal, charitable, as well as many public sector institutions ‘ both local and national. Restore customise solutions by keeping in mind three key points: Sustainability, compliance and responsible action.
To find out more about how Restore can support your downsizing project, please contact us today.
This feature was brought to you courtesy of Restore.
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