Shifting work patterns and workplace perceptions post-COVID-19

Abstract

As many companies encourage employees to return to the office following COVID-19, it is timely to examine its impact on work patterns and workplace perceptions. This study analyses 5,644 responses to a post-occupancy evaluation survey in Australian office buildings, matched pre-, during, and post-pandemic. Significant shifts toward flexible work arrangements were observed, with a tripling of employees working less than 10 h in the office and a 62% decline in those working over 30 h. Interaction effects between COVID-19 periods, office hours (χ2 = 528.7, p < 0.001), and workspace type (χ2 = 149.6, p < 0.001) were noted. Satisfaction with indoor environmental quality components, especially ‘Spatial Environment’, ‘Daylight & Views’, and ‘Personal Control’ post-COVID declined significantly (p < 0.05). ‘Privacy & Disruption’ emerged as the strongest predictor of perceived productivity and health. The findings highlight the need for optimized spatial layouts to enhance privacy, reduce disruptions, and promote a healthy office environment, offering key insights into office workers’ evolving post-pandemic needs.