The Future of Workplace Design: Insights from Tech Veteran Alan Robles
“Alan Robles, a tech and design veteran from Gensler, shares his insights on the future of workplace design. From the impact of mobility to the rise of IoT and AR, discover how technology is reshaping our work environments and what to expect in the coming years. ”
The Evolution of Workplace Design: A Conversation with Alan Robles
In the ever-changing landscape of workplace design, few voices carry as much weight as that of Alan Robles. With over two decades of experience in strategic design implementations, Robles is at the forefront of developing technology-rich experiences for Gensler, one of the world's leading design firms. His insights offer a glimpse into the future of our workplaces and how technology is reshaping the very fabric of our professional environments.
The Impact of Mobility on Workplace Design
According to Robles, the most significant change in recent years has been the impact of mobility. "We're now seeing communal spaces replacing the basic need for traditional individual workstations," he explains. This shift is driven by people's desire to work where they're comfortable and can find their productive groove. The rise of mobile technology has untethered workers from their desks, allowing for more flexible and dynamic use of office space.
The Future Workplace: A Mobility-Centered Productivity Model
Looking ahead, Robles envisions a workplace centered around mobile devices. "We foresee a mobility-centered productivity model where the personal device, the mobile phone, is the center of productivity," he states. This prediction is supported by recent technological advancements, such as Apple's use of the same chips in laptops and phones, and Samsung's products that allow phones to function like computers.
This evolution will have profound implications for how we design and use physical spaces. As our devices become more powerful and versatile, the need for traditional office equipment may diminish, allowing for more creative and flexible use of workspace.
The Rise of IoT and Augmented Reality in Office Design
The Internet of Things (IoT) and Augmented Reality (AR) are set to play significant roles in the future of workplace design. Robles notes that while IoT is still in its infancy in architectural practice, it holds immense potential. "We're looking at a future where the building will have a sort of spatial awareness that will allow us to understand the way they perform and through that understanding allow us to make better use of the space," he explains.
As for AR, Robles predicts that it may eventually replace some physical artifacts in the office, with their functionality delivered through new devices. This could lead to a dramatic reimagining of what an office looks like and how it functions.
The Importance of Wireless Networks
While we often focus on flashy new technologies, Robles emphasizes the critical role of robust wireless networks. "Wi-Fi networks are by far the most impactful technologies in any place where devices are needed to be productive," he states. As 5G technology matures, it will enable even more powerful cloud computing capabilities, further enhancing the effectiveness of our mobile devices.
Adapting to New Work Models
The trend towards activity-based work and unassigned workstations is part of the overall evolution of workplace design. However, Robles stresses the importance of education and buy-in from users when implementing these changes. "Without proper preparation, education, and buy-in from the ultimate users of unassigned workplaces, change is challenged to take permanent hold and be successful," he cautions.
The Future of Workplace Technology
Looking to the near future, Robles predicts that decentralized computing, Augmented Reality, and Artificial Intelligence will transform how we use information in the workplace. He also foresees the potential obsolescence of certain physical elements:
- Wires and cables
- Cable trays
- Traditional monitors
- Desk phones
While these changes may not happen overnight, the trend towards wireless, mobile-first workplaces is clear.
Staying Ahead of Workplace Trends
For companies looking to stay up-to-date with workplace trends and technology, Robles offers this advice: "Invest in your network. It will offer you the most future opportunities as new technologies become viable and useful." He also emphasizes the importance of basing technology decisions on practical data rather than getting swayed by trends.
Conclusion: Designing for People
Despite all the technological advancements, Robles reminds us of a crucial point: "We have to remember that you will get different results from a chisel in the hands of a journeyman than you will when it is wielded by an artisan. All of these new technologies are still only as good as the professionals who put them into practice."
Ultimately, the success of any workplace design comes down to the happiness and productivity of the workforce. As we look to the future of office design, it's clear that technology will play an increasingly central role. However, the human element remains paramount. The challenge for designers and companies alike will be to harness these new technologies in ways that truly enhance the work experience and foster innovation.
By staying informed about emerging trends and technologies, while always keeping the needs of employees at the forefront, organizations can create workplaces that are not just technologically advanced, but truly conducive to productivity, creativity, and well-being.
