Innovation Cultures - Thinking Innovation v2 | Page 23

What about the data? “ While we still move around a lot, the flex floor gives us the chance to still bump into each other and have ad hoc meetings. ML: Data is going to leave the devices and go to the data center or the cloud. The device is becoming the access tool. How do you deal with the security challenges of this new work environment? ML: There are clear design patterns emerging to protect data in a mobile, BYOD world. These revolve around two core approaches. The first approach is to keep data off the access device by using browser based applications that do not allow data downloads. We are also using virtual desktops so that all of the applications and data remain in the data centre, and are accessed via specialized protocols from the access device. The second is to create a secure, encrypted “container” on the access device, where the firm can control access to enterprise application and data, but not impact the employee’s personal data and applications. In your experience, what has been the generational impact of these work place and technology changes? Gen Y vs. Boomers? ML: My observation is that it has been less generational and more one of preferred working style when it comes to technology – some older folks are quite comfortable with the new model. Now regardless of generation, with flex space the non-assigned work stations require you to hit our kiosk and book your station. People that tend to be in the same place 4 or 5 days a week are struggling to get assigned work stations vs. mobile, so we are trying to increase the awareness of the value of mobility. But is every job made better by mobility? ML: While we do have an objective that a certain percentage of the floor is for mobile workers, that objective is based on a number of factors which includes reaching our cost targets but also on surveys and behaviors of workers. So the reality is that we based it on some pretty standardized facts about our workforce. Have you seen a change in leadership style with the work spaces, for example in folks that report to you? ML: We are poster children for this. We used to be spread over many buildings and now we all congregate in the same floor with meeting spaces and can collaborate more. While we still move around a lot, the flex floor gives us the chance to still bump into each other and have ad hoc meetings. My staff and I love it. I can see that this would likely be better than telecommuting where you have more extreme decentralization without the serendipity of physically connecting. ML: Absolutely and another aspect that is great is that the floors are beautifully done in terms of color and light. 21