Yvonne O’Reilly: “No one can deny that digitalisation has been a vital lifeline during this pandemic.” (Photo: Avanteam)

Yvonne O’Reilly: “No one can deny that digitalisation has been a vital lifeline during this pandemic.” (Photo: Avanteam)

Ahead of the event 10x6 RH: les nouvelles façons de travailler organised by the Paperjam + Delano Club on Thursday 24 June, one of the speakers, Yvonne O’Reilly (Avanteam) shares her vision on the new ways of working in companies.

What are, for you, the existing and functional alternatives to working under new methods?

“There are no fail-proof methods or processes that apply across the board to all business sectors. Essentially, the best ways of working are those that are adapted to meet the specific needs of each organisation. Changes in the wider system dynamics as well as business strategy set the context.

Ultimately, the success of any business has more to do with the quality of the work culture than methods or policies on how to get work done. Organisations that stay ahead of the curve are those that create inclusive cultures where people are engaged in meaningful work, have space to explore, experiment and create solutions together and are recognised for the value they bring. These factors of success are not new. They are timeless. When people are valued, business grows, exponentially.

Digitalisation is referred to as the “number one backup” (cf. the health crisis). Is it really the miracle solution?

“No one can deny that digitalisation has been a vital lifeline during this pandemic. Digital solutions have enabled businesses to survive and families to stay in touch during extended periods of lockdown. Even the most digitally challenged among us has become more tech savvy as a result of Covid-19!

However, the surge of digitalisation comes with a human price. The fatigue and psychological stress of looking at screens all day as well as the isolation and loneliness of working in a virtual world have taken a toll. With the lines blurred between home life and work life, people are struggling to set boundaries.

When it comes to digitalisation, the biggest challenge is not information management, its energy management! Managing and renewing our energy depends on creating a healthy balance between digital connection and good old-fashioned human connection, starting with ourselves.

Taking time for ourselves to reboost our energy, connects us to a sense of purpose that goes beyond the ‘busyness’ of our digital lives.

What are the prospects for “new ways of working” in the next 5 to 10 years?

“One thing we know for sure is that change is constant. New ways of working in the next 5 to 10 years are, therefore, inevitable. Rather than speculating on what these new ways of working might be, I think it’s important to keep in mind the following system dynamics.

Firstly, as human beings, whatever global events or new challenges emerge over the coming years. We have the potential to find a way forward adaptation is in our DNA. Like all living systems, this is how we grow and evolve.

Secondly, we have the collective intelligence to create trends rather than follow them, if we choose to do so. To create a better world for all will take serious reflection and disruptive action not just in terms of how we shape the future of work but how we shape the future for our planet. Short-term thinking is not enough. Long-term vision is essential.”

You can register for the 10x6 RH: les nouvelles façons de travailler event .