In the late 1990’s consulting firm Ernst & Young hired a firm to help them redesign their L.A. Offices. The company was growing quickly and wanted a space that showed how powerful they were becoming. They also wanted to save money and increase productivity.
Before my interest in telecommuting I was practically obsessed with office space design. We’ve all worked in bad offices; cramped fluorescent lit spaces that make sure to squeeze every ounce of humanity out of your work day. Fewer workers are lucky enough to spend time in a working environment that is warm and inviting. Ernst & Young had the money and the inclination to make their office space work for them.
The solution was a brand new style of office they called constellations. They spread their offices around the L.A. area and invited their staff to work in the office of their choice. The plan worked to cut down commuting time and make the workforce more productive.
The story ended there, but it left me with a larger question. If everyone comes to a different office than the other members of their team what’s the point of going to the office? Your teammates aren’t there and your boss isn’t there, so why not just work from home?
Some employees probably wanted to come into the office. Working from home isn’t for everyone and that’s fine. But why make everyone commute? Here’s a few guesses:
Work happens in the office. It is a popular sentiment. It started with the industrial revolution. Ever since we left the farms behind for factories people have thought of your job as something you did outside of your house.
We need to see you working. Sure your boss may not be there, but making everyone work together makes people more productive. When you work from home how can we be sure you aren’t goofing off?
Its more professional. This argument is the most vague. You can’t point to a specific benefit, but working in an office just feels more professional.
These arguments make sense in theory, but in the real world they fall flat. We all know people who can stay professional and productive while telecommuting. So… Why wouldn’t all companies allow it?