Since the beginning of the COVID pandemic, Microsoft has been tracking the shift to remote work through their Worklab research division. But unlike other companies and pundits with various agenda, it has been doing something approaching unbiased research and legitimate analysis.
Microsoft is doing a great public service in pursuing these studies. As we’ve pointed out, the software industry has, ironically, been among the most resistant to adopting remote work.
They also face a great deal of backlash from business sectors with any number of self-serving interests to continue promoting unnecessary commuting, both by road and air.
But the reason for Microsoft’s numerous recent real estate moves is that remote work, works. Productivity can be maintained (and in many cases increased.) Costs reduced. Employee and customer satisfaction improved.
As with any positive disruption, yes, there will be temporary ‘losers’. The Port of Seattle (and all airlines), real estate, construction, and local governments (like Bellevue and Seattle) are enablers of an unsustainable status quo. There are jobs, profits, and taxes on the line. And rather than reform themselves, these sectors have every incentive to greenwash and slow walk the transition.
But the same could be said for any ‘industrial complex’, including the military and health care. At a certain point, the market must be allowed to select for the best solutions. To do otherwise is actually a form of social-engineering, tantamount to elevator operators of the last century.
If we are to transition to a post-fossil fuel world, we must encourage companies like Microsoft. We must find ways to make a living without unnecessary travel and commuting.