Hybrid work software is a system that combines remote and in-office work in modern workplaces. In essence, hybrid work software ensures that everyone can maximize their productivity, regardless of their working location.

Hybrid work software solutions often have features for staff oversight, company directory integrations, staff scheduling/tasks/calendars, etc. It is a type of software that can help you manage the entire digital workspace, from content and files to collaborative office spaces for teams.

A hybrid work model is a work arrangement that enables employees to work both from home (or other locations outside the office) and from the office, according to their company policy and/or their own preferences. 

A hybrid work schedule is a work schedule that alternates between at-office work and remote work. The schedule can be determined by the company or by employees themselves, based on the company policies that allow working remotely a given number of days/ week (or per month). For example, employees can choose (or be requested) to come to the office on Mondays and Wednesdays and work from home the remaining days.

Hybrid work is commonly called the future of work for a reason because of its multiple benefits for organizations and their employees:

• It allows everyone the flexibility they need from their job.
• It increases employee satisfaction - statistically, employees who work in hybrid settings are more satisfied with their jobs as compared to employees that work only on site or only at home.
• Hybrid organizations have access to larger talent pools. As the hiring process is not bound by location, companies can look for the best candidates beyond their office-centric talent pools.
• It can lead to rental cost savings as organizations need less office space to accommodate employees onsite.

However, there are some drawbacks to keep in mind when planning to implement hybrid work model:

• It may increase reliance on technology, as hybrid work requires digital systems to bridge remote and in-house employees.
• Increased reliance on technology might result in heightened cyber risks.
• Due to predominantly digital communication, team relationships might weaken.

A successful hybrid workplace starts with well set processes and the necessary tools that enable employees to alternate between office work and remote work.

However, hybrid work does not fit a one-size-fits-all approach - there is no universal formula that organizations follow to adopt it. Depending on their need and internal policies, organizations usually settle with one of the hybrid work strategies: remote-first, office-occasional, or office-first.

The best way to manage a hybrid workforce is by implementing hybrid work processes and policies, as well as embracing technology that allows everyone to be productive regardless of their chosen location of work.

For employers, hybrid work offers a solution to appease their entire workforce. It emphasizes employee autonomy and flexibility, enabling them to work in an environment that makes them feel the best.

Hybrid meetings are most successful when companies invest in quality equipment (such as video conferencing tools and quality microphones), as well as meeting room software that allows proper scheduling.

All signs point towards: “yes, hybrid work is the future of work”. After two years of working remotely, most employees (and their managers) agree that remote work does pose a lot of benefits. As such, companies are ready to accept that a mix between working remotely and working in the office.