How and where work is done is pretty wide open because of technology. Big Six accounting firms pioneered alternative officing in the late '80s. It has become much more popular in recent years because new technology enables nomadic executives to have easy access to their own files, their companies and their customers. Lifescan Inc. Thanks in part to products created here, it's now relatively inexpensive to supply mobile communications tools and to wire alternative offices and home offices in a way that enables employees to be nearly as plugged in as if they had permanent space at corporate headquarters. And while the total bill can be substantial, it's more than offset by the savings from lower rents, says Tandem's Robinson.
Users can configure the space to their needs quickly.
He then can go to the storage area to pick up files or move a mobile file cabinet to his new work space, where he plugs his laptop directly into a line connected to Cisco's computer. Most alternative offices have a few permanent residents including managers who oversee the hot desk users and an administrator - sometimes called a concierge because he or she tries to help resolve logistical problems for people who use the facility. Most companies ask employees to become involved in the design of alternate office space, which may be one reason these programs have been successful even though they force employees to change habits. That compares with a pre-project survey that showed only 16 percent of users were satisfied with visitor office space and services. One downside to hoteling is the loss of office camaraderie and personal contact, Javier says.