Why hybrid is vital in an AI world.

Tech buzzwords often burst onto the scene, make headlines, and quietly fade away. But if there's one that seems set to reshape our world profoundly, it's artificial intelligence (AI).

In the AI universe, 'generative AI' shines brightly. This game-changing technology, found in platforms like ChatGPT, employs machine learning algorithms to scrutinise a vast amount of data and create entirely new content – whether that's an article, a piece of music, or a design blueprint.

Its potential is nothing short of staggering. Goldman Sachs projects that the productivity boost driven by generative AI could inflate global GDP by an astounding 7%.

But there's a hitch – harnessing the benefits of generative AI isn't as easy as switching to a platform like ChatGPT. In the increasingly digital world of work, it's important not to let the human element slip into the shadows.

Real-life interactions and face-to-face collaboration remain cornerstones of operational success. The hybrid work model, which fosters in-person collaboration while removing the burden of the time-consuming, energy-sapping commute, not only complements the productivity gains offered by AI but also provides a resilient buffer against potential disruptions.

The challenges of AI in the workplace

Since its launch in late 2022, ChatGPT has raised the profile of generative AI, sparking lively debates about its potential impact on our jobs. Today, AI advancements dovetail with a global push for operational efficiency, which looks set to transform the way we work entirely.

Whether it's customer service, sales and marketing, research, or software development, AI is reshaping industry sectors. It's creating powerful tools for problem-solving, personalising user experiences, cutting research time and costs, and boosting productivity.

But there are legitimate concerns. Jobs will inevitably be made redundant, and upskilling employees to work hand-in-glove with AI comes with a price tag. What's more, AI's potential misuse calls for careful regulation and oversight remains critical. Ultimately, despite the power of AI, successful business operations will still rely heavily on good old-fashioned human interactions.

The importance of face-to-face collaboration in the AI era

In a recent article, Dr Gleb Tsipursky, a neuroscientist and behavioural economist, made a key point: AI can't replace everything humans bring to the table. There are five areas in particular where we outshine AI:

1. Being creative and innovative

2. Building and fostering relationships

3. Shaping the company culture

4. Making complex decisions

5. Demonstrating emotional intelligence

These human traits shine brightest in face-to-face interactions. And that's where the hybrid model, where employees split their time between the office, home, and local flex spaces, steps in. Hybrid work ensures these vital in-person meetings are not just possible but convenient and regular, fuelling the human collaboration that makes AI most effective.

But the benefits of hybrid go even further. According to an IWG survey, two out of three workers felt they performed better when they could choose where to work. And that's backed up by Nicholas Bloom, Professor of Economics at Stanford University, who suggests hybrid businesses can realise productivity gains of about 3% to 4%.

The hybrid model also hits the right notes for employee well-being. As IWG's CEO, Mark Dixon, suggests, it's about balance: “It’s clear that working solely at home or solely at a main office is not what people want or need. They love the sense of companionship that comes with face-to-face interaction, but they don’t necessarily want that every day of the working week."

This balance is good for us. IWG's Hybrid & Healthy study found that workers are healthier and happier when commuting less.

So, as AI continues to reshape our work, let's not forget the value of human connection. The hybrid model supports these essential interactions, merging them with AI's efficiency. It's a win-win, paving the way for a more productive and healthier future of work.

Work is where the heart is

While AI has the potential to revolutionise our work, it needs the human touch to shine fully. Part of AI's appeal is that it can shoulder some of the admin load, freeing us up for what really matters – meaningful collaboration with colleagues.

This is where flex spaces come into their own. These community hubs provide an ideal setting for meetings, teamwork, and social interactions, all within a convenient distance from home. So, with AI handling the routine and flex spaces fostering human connection, we have the perfect blend for a productive work life.

With access to 4,000 locations Regus locations across over 120 countries, your team can enjoy meaningful interactions closer to home, benefiting people, the planet and the company's profits. Get in touch to see how we can help you maintain human contact in an increasingly automated world.

About IWG

IWG is the global leader in hybrid work solutions and workspace brands. We create personal, financial, and strategic value for businesses of every size, from some of the most exciting companies and well-known organisations on the planet to individuals and the next generation of industry leaders. They all harness the power of IWG's hybrid working platform to increase their productivity, efficiency, agility, and market proximity.

IWG’s unrivalled network coverage includes approximately 3,500 locations across more than 120 countries, and 83% of Fortune 500 companies are amongst our growing customer base.

Through our brands, including Regus, Spaces, HQ and Signature, we help millions of people and their businesses to work more productively. We do so by providing the world's leading hybrid work platform with professional, inspiring and collaborative workspaces and digital services, all available via the IWG app. For more information

Visit www.iwgplc.com, and for more information on partnering with IWG, see: ​ https://www.iwgplc.com/develop-a-location