The Workplace Throughout Time

Like most things, the workplace has seen its fair share of changes. It’s definitely completely different to what is 30+ years ago.With the introduction of new technologies and tools the workplace (specifically the office) has had to adapt in numerous ways in order to accommodate to these changes and meet the needs of employees. So how much has the workplace changed over the years?

1970’s – 1990’s:

  • Offices used to be made up of cubicles and c-suites. Employees were often encouraged to work more independently as opposed to modern day offices, where team work is highly encouraged.
  • The workplace was a lot less tech orientated – most business communication took place over landlines and in person and documents were all hard copies.
  • Email, Word processor and the first personal computers were all invented in the 70s, however mobiles were not around until 1988 and the internet was not created until 1990.

2000 – Today:

  • There is more focus on feeling comfortable in the workplace, with things such as standing desks, comfortable seating and remote working having been introduced in recent years to keep staff happy and motivated.
  • The modern workplace is all about social collaboration and rising tech trends. New tools and technology have transformed the way that we work, from video software such as Skye being introduced in the early 00’s and social media rising in popularity a couple of years later.
  • The internet, smart phones, online file sharing, etc. has all made it possible for us to work anywhere and everywhere, which has made working with people from around the world easier.
  • With technology comes distractions however, and 40% of someone’s productive time is taken up by shifting between tasks.

The future?

It’s hard to say what the future of the workplace holds. Will we still need to come into a physical space or will technology be so advance that the need for a physical place is not required. The answer is we do not know, however what we can do is prepare for what may come and adjust to fit the needs of new developments.