The
future workplace for textiles practitioners is an exciting concept. Expansive
advances and accessibility of new technology allows us to question whether our
way of working will become more independent. Will there be a need for largely
developed factories and workshops or will all the resources be available in the
comfort of our own homes?
The
internet enables companies to communicate at a large global scale. Multiple
team members are able to collaborate ideas using programs such as Skype and
face-timing software on computers, tablets and now even smartphones. These
virtual meetings have an advantage over face-to-face conferences as larger numbers
of workers can be involved and more suggestions can be made and shared. However
it is not only during vocalised communication that technology brings ease to
methods of working. Sizeable files and documents can be sent via intranets and
emails at high speed. These communication methods mean that time differences
between workers around the world become less problematic, but can a company
remain connected through technology alone?
A
large element of textiles design is the development of the textural appearance and
handle of the components and materials used. There is a limit to how a tactile
quality can be described and expressed through spoken or written word, meaning
that sometimes it is vital that a textile travels through our fingers. It is
only then that we can acquire a sense of how the fabric would work for its
proposed application and end use. It is important that the full design team are
able to respond to fabrics to allow for a collaborative discussion about
developments and adjustments that need to be made. If there is not a communal
workplace for this to happen, increased numbers of samples would be need to be
produced and sent out to all team members which will therefore increase the
time needed in development stages but also increase the amount raw materials
and resources used.
The
idea of individuals working and collaborating from multiple household settings
also brings potential problems in terms of creative thinking. Idea generation
and innovation is dependant on our surrounding environment. To fully understand
direction of thoughts, it is sometimes important to talk through initial ideas
and receive feedback to aid development. Working in a less-structured
environment may enhance ideas yet may also create a feeling of isolation and a
creative block. Choices in creative working spaces is a very personal decision.
So…will the future workplace be more of a flexible idea?
