What is a digital workplace?
The workplace looks different these days
Many companies have switched to hybrid, or even fully remote, work models. As such, the old workplace model of the well-staffed office tower is a thing of the past — at least for now.
So, with reduced physical workspaces and workers reliant on digital technology, what exactly does the workplace look like now?
A decentralized digital workplace has become common. Some have defined this digital workplace as:
A platform for maintaining productivity in the absence of a physical workspace — especially communicating seamlessly despite a distributed workforce.
A company-specific Internet of Things — i.e., a corporate intranet and all the software and hardware needed to participate in it.
A virtual workspace that fosters organic human interaction and employee engagement.
The reality is, a digital workplace is more than just a substitute for a physical worksite. It’s an arrangement that leverages technology and automation to bring people together. It keeps employees connected in a secured environment and has been found to boost productivity, bringing companies a competitive advantage.
You might have also heard about a “virtual workplace.” The virtual workplace is somewhat different from the digital workplace. While the virtual workplace by definition allows work to take place in more than one physical location, a digital workplace enables work using technology to enhance communication and collaboration for onsite workers, hybrid workers, and remote workers.
Elements of a digital workplace
By developing a digital workplace, a company can connect, collaborate, and communicate with its employees, partners, and customers in a time when many employees and customers don’t work in a single physical location.
Let's look at some elements of a digital workplace:
Videoconference and video meeting rooms
Cloud computing made simple
Secured communications and information infrastructure
Document workflows and management
Creating a digital workplace – for now and the future
Recently, many companies made the transition to the digital workplace. Since then, it has become clear that, when implemented successfully, the digital workplace offers many benefits.
The pandemic has only accelerated the need for a more comprehensive digital workplace strategy. This continues as hybrid work environments – along with remote and borderless work practices – have become the most common work models.
Ricoh has helped many industry-leading organizations develop efficient and successful digital workplaces to meet the needs of now – and the future.
If you haven’t taken steps toward a digital workplace, don’t hesitate any longer — and don’t fear change.
FAQ
What is a virtual workplace?
A virtual workplace is a workplace that is not based out of a physical building or office and instead uses technology to conduct business. Employees connect to a network to collaborate, message with one another, and access data and applications needed to do their job.