REMOTE WORKING AND ITS IMPACT ON THE FLEXIBLE OFFICE MARKET IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

This dissertation paper explores remote working and its impact on the flexible office market in Singapore. The objective is to identify (i) the sentiments about remote working, (ii) the limitations and benefits of remote working, with particular emphasis on remote working from home, (iii) the position of flexible office space to bridge the limitations and maximise the benefits of remote work, and lastly (v) the sustainability of the flexible office space as a long-term workplace solution. Existing research suggests that full-time employees are receptive to the idea of remote work as it has brought about benefits like increased convenience, flexibility, and work-life balance. However, the findings also revealed that some full-time employees were not receptive to remote work from home as the benefits cannot offset the limitations such as lack of proper work conditions, poorer collaboration, and the lack of social interactions. There is still a crucial need for office spaces, but little is known about the future of flexible office spaces considering the pandemic climate. Through survey questionnaires and interviews, this paper will also explore various factors (i.e. demographics, business stages, and natures of work) and how employees with different work profiles would require different workplace solutions. The results found that though flexible offices may not be favored by everyone as a long-term strategy, employers do see its value as a short-term solution considering the changing demands and the effects of the pandemic. The concept of flexible offices could thus be further developed to suit the changing demands.