Is Hot Desking The Future Of Flexible Workspaces? Details Here

Hot desking, or 'hoteling,' is a flexible working arrangement where employees do not have designated workstations. Instead, they use available workstations or desks on a first-come, first-served basis

In a time when cost-effectiveness and flexibility rule workplace trends, hot desking has become recognised as a solution that meets the evolving needs of both employers and employees. What was once only an idea for independent contractors and startups is now widely used by large corporations and remote-friendly businesses. However, what is hot desking really, and how does it operate?

Hot Desking

Hot desking, or 'hoteling,' is a flexible working arrangement where employees do not have designated workstations. Instead, they use available workstations or desks on a first-come, first-served basis. This is a departure from traditional office setups where each worker has their own cubicle or desk. The aim of hot desking is to optimize space, reduce real estate costs, and cater to a workforce that is increasingly open to remote and hybrid work setups.

How Does It Work?

First-Come, First-Served: In certain situations, workstations could be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. When they arrive, employees are free to select any available desk, and at the end of the day, they are expected to empty it so that it is ready for the next user.

Booking Systems: Many businesses use desk booking software to enable staff members to make reservations before they arrive at work. This arrangement guarantees that there is space for everyone to work and helps avoid crowding.

Rotational Use: Some businesses may assign workstations to teams or project groups depending on the timetable. This guarantees optimal space utilisation, particularly in situations where certain staff members operate remotely or off-site.

Shared Resources: By allowing all staff members to use common spaces like phone booths, conference rooms, and quiet places, the necessity for individual workstations is further diminished.

Hot Desking Getting Popular

The practice of hot desking has become more popular as companies look to save overhead and provide workers with more flexibility. Maintaining offices for each employee becomes superfluous as more businesses embrace hybrid work arrangements, in which workers divide their time between the office and their homes. By implementing hot desking, businesses can reduce their office space and handle a variable number of in-office workers.

Disadvantages

Although hot desking offers benefits, there are also drawbacks. Some workers may find it annoying that their desks are not personalised or that they must rush to get one daily. Furthermore, hygiene issues have gained prominence since the pandemic, necessitating stringent cleaning procedures in shared workspaces to ensure worker safety.