THE FUTURE WORKPLACE

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?