WFH (Working from Home), a concept that has been a perk in the more flexible companies, is now the way of work for a good portion of the workforce around the world. COVID-19 has transformed not only how we live but also how we work. One day, we were in the office collaborating with our team; the next day, we are sharing screens on a video conference call.

Technology and cloud-based solutions have made this transition a relatively smooth one for most organizations. However, how was the transition of the physical workstation? Many people do not have a designated workspace at home. Some of us are adjusting well to our home office and making the best use of the existing furniture, resulting in shifts in workstyles and habits. Other people are rediscovering things about their work needs, leading to various rearranging and repurposing of furniture to suit those new behaviors.

Are you working on the dining table with your housemates or family members? Are you trying to hide in your room and find some quiet space to focus? Are you typing away while lounging on your sofa with your feet up? Are you stacking books and boxes to create a standing desk? Do you find yourself taking short breaks for fresh air out in the yard? Do you find yourself sitting by an opened window and getting some natural breeze and daylight?

By taking note of our workstyles, we collect valuable insights that will help improve our workplace experience when we return to our offices. This new understanding of the team will help identify what the team actually needs to be productive, collaborative, and feel well.

This presents a great opportunity for workplace professionals to reimagine the workplace. It’s time to reevaluate the effectiveness and uses of the existing workplace. The neighborhoods and furniture that were supportive and working well prior to this extended WFH period may become very limiting and unstimulating. Move things around. Donate the obsolete goods. Purchase new, functional furniture. When this is all over, we will not be back to “normal”. We should plan to move towards a more supportive, flexible office that offers an even better workplace experience.

Bottom line: the workplace should always accommodate and conform to its people and their purpose, and all the changes that happen along the way.