What Will Modern Workplaces Look Like Post-Pandemic?

by Startacus Admin

What will the new normal workplace look like? Here’s a breakdown of three features a modern workplace might want to adopt post COVID-19 pandemic.
These are unprecedented times. We were still in the middle of a historical pandemic that is forever changing our way of life. The long-term effects of COVID-19 will leave a lasting footprint on companies and businesses around the world and workplaces will never be the same.
What will the new workplace look like? Our prediction is modern technology will rise to the forefront as safe, convenient solutions to securing offices and workplaces. Artificial intelligence, facial recognition, robotics, machine learning, and Internet of Things are being forecast to grow at an accelerated pace as a result of the emergent scenario.
Here’s a breakdown of three features every modern workplace should adopt post COVID-19, care of Imran Anwar from office entry solution tech company Swiftlane.
Touchless Office Entry
Key cards and PIN codes will become an access control solution of the past. Contact based workplace access control systems are quickly becoming outdated because of their potential for spreading infections and germs. Legacy access control methods are not very secure either. They don’t offer secure protection against common entry management issues like tailgating, key card cloning, and PIN code sharing.
Touchless access control systems rely on the latest AI based facial recognition technology to authorize and control access to the workplace. Today’s face readers are capable of reading faces in 2D and 3D, matching the data with pre-stored face recognition credentials, and automatically granting access by unlocking the door. User just has to look at the face reading terminal to unlock the door and enter the workplace. The system also works as a video intercom between the front door and reception desk and can be used for video surveillance and active health monitoring.
Robots As Workers
Although the janitorial industry is booming, cleaning professionals face a greater risk of contracting COVID-19. The solution? Replace them with robots.Walmart is already using robots to scrub floors and Amazon is using them to sort and ship inventory at warehouses. Infrared disinfecting robots are in use by thousands of workplaces in China as they reopen after the lockdown. McDonald’s is experimenting with robots as cooks and waiters.
Artificial intelligence has made it possible for bots to play highly personalized roles such as financial consultants and personal assistants. Robots don’t catch COVID-19, don’t need vacations, and don’t fall sick. They were already replacing human workers in many industries before the outbreak. COVID-19 and the ensuing crises are likely to speed up their adoption and replacement of human employees by enterprises.
Social Distancing in Workplaces
COVID-19 has necessitated that a social distance of 2 meters (approximately 6 feet) be maintained between people at all times. Workplaces are responsible to implement the new regulations. The new normal means that workplaces will be able to accommodate fewer people. Workplace managers will need to enable employees to work from home and/or work in shifts. The office access control system can play a major role in controlling the entry times and the number of people that can be at the workplace at one time.
The CDC recently released new employer information for office buildings that includes the following:
- Create a COVID-19 workplace health and safety plan
- Before resuming business operations, check the building to see if it’s ready for occupancy
- Identify where and how workers might be exposed to COVID-19 at work by conducting a thorough hazard assessment of the workplace
- Develop hazard controls using the hierarchy of controls to reduce transmission among workers.
Cushman & Wakefield, a global real estate developer, has recently pioneered the design of what they call “The 6 Feet Office”. The layout uses floor circles and other visual cues to ensure that employees maintain a separation of six feet between them at all times. Workplaces that can ill afford the financial cost of a complete office revamp will need to redefine the way they work. Work from home employees, remote working tools, and secure high speed internet connectivity may be your only option if you don’t want to rent a bigger office.
Either way, the future workplace looks very different from the “open concept” layout that gained popularity in recent years.
Subscribe to our newsletter
If you would like to receive our startup themed newsletter, full of the latest startup opportunities, events, news, stories, tips and advice, then sign up here.
Tobin Capital continues to expand its portfolio by investing in pop-up marketplace Sook, the startup on a mission to revolutionise the high street.

Sodexo and L Marks open call for applications from innovative startups and scaleups to join their inaugural Sodexo Healthcare and Seniors Accelerator.

The lowdown on FuturePlus, the startup that's on a mission to make sustainability accessible, achievable and affordable for all businesses.

John McLachlan, author and co-founder of Monkey Puzzle Training & Consultancy examines the differences between action-oriented and reflective leaders and which approach is best.

The fitness app that's not just about physical fitness; GoJoe helps employers to engage, motivate and connect their people across all pillars of wellbeing.

Now in its fifth year, North West England water firm United Utilities opens call for Innovation Lab, its pioneering ideas incubation programme.

Not-for-profit OneTech has spunout from Capital Enterprise to expand its offering and continue its mission of creating a more equitable, diverse and supported startup ecosystem.

London-based startup Deep Render tackles the internet’s data and bandwidth challenges via its innovative AI-powered file compression technology.

The lowdown on Dublin-based startup and NUI Maynooth spin-out Neuromod Devices and its innovative evidence-based bimodal neuromodulation treatment for chronic tinnitus.

With the clear shift towards generative AI, Richard Hayes, search director at digital marketing agency Catalyst explores what it means for SEO...
Published on: 5th June 2020
If you would like to enable commenting via your Startacus account, please enable Disqus functionality in your Account Settings.







- Startup Sook Receives Investment from Tobin Capital 24th May 2023 Tobin Capital continues to expand its portfolio by investing in pop-up marketplace Sook, the startup on a mission to revolutionise the high street.
- L Marks Seeking Startups and Scaleups for Sodexo Healthcare and Seniors Accelerator 23rd May 2023 Sodexo and L Marks open call for applications from innovative startups and scaleups to join their inaugural Sodexo Healthcare and Seniors Accelerator.
- United Utilities Innovation Lab launches call-out for innovative ideas for fifth programme 18th May 2023 Now in its fifth year, North West England water firm United Utilities opens call for Innovation Lab, its pioneering ideas incubation programme.
- OneTech Spins Out from Capital Enterprise to Support Underserved Communities in Tech Across the UK 18th May 2023 Not-for-profit OneTech has spunout from Capital Enterprise to expand its offering and continue its mission of creating a more equitable, diverse and supported startup ecosystem.