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.
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