Embracing Flexibility: The Future of Work in India

In the evolving landscape of Indian workplaces, flexibility has become the cornerstone of employee expectations. According to the Future Forum Winter Pulse Survey 2023, a staggering 81% of Indian employees now desire location flexibility, while 93% seek flexible scheduling. With the pandemic accelerating shifts in how and where we work, Indian organisations are facing the challenge of aligning traditional office cultures with today’s demands for more adaptable work arrangements. This change reflects a growing recognition of the benefits flexibility can offer, including improved work-life balance, reduced commute times, and enhanced productivity. Despite this clear preference, nearly 50% of Indian companies still maintain fully in-office policies, which suggests a disconnect between employee expectations and organisational practices.?

The Flexible Work Arrangement Model: A Middle Ground?

The flexible work arrangement model, which combines in-office and remote work, is emerging as a preferred solution for many organisations. Currently, 37.4% of companies in India have adopted this approach, with employees typically spending around four days a week in the office. This is higher than the global average of 2.4 days, indicating a strong cultural emphasis on in-person interactions. However, for this model to be successful, companies must focus on creating an engaging and inclusive office environment that draws employees back to the workplace.?

Redefining the workplace

To support the shift towards flexible work arrangements, the traditional office setup must be reimagined. This is where Millerknoll’s Design with Impact framework can help. This approach helps organizations tailor office design to meet their exact needs while helping them prioritize employee wellbeing, foster connections across work models, and navigate changes. Design with Impact leverages a diverse portfolio of products from our collective of brands to create flexible spaces, adaptable workstations, technology-enabled meeting rooms, and other essential components of today’s Indian offices that enhance collaboration and productivity.?

The future of work in India is about finding a balance between traditional practices and innovative work models. As companies navigate this transition, those that prioritize flexibility and employee wellbeing will be better positioned to attract and retain top talent. It’s time for organisations to move beyond viewing flexibility as a temporary response to the changing landscape of work, and instead, embrace it as a strategic imperative that drives business growth.

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