Effect of Hybrid Workstyles on Productivity of Workers in an Activity-Based Office

This study investigated the effect of hybrid working on the productivity and environmental satisfaction in an activity-based office. Activity-based working is a work style in which workers choose where and when they work. Offices that introduced this concept are known as activity-based offices. To prevent the transmission of COVID-19, hybrid working has become common in Japan after the declaration of the state of emergency. We conducted three surveys in an activity-based office, before, during, and after the state of emergency. The results showed that hybrid working improved workers' perceived productivity. However, the results were influenced by whether the workers valued working with team members at the same location. Workers who valued on-site collaboration saw their productivity decline at home since they found it difficult to communicate. In contrast, others reported higher productivity at home since they found it easier to concentrate, mainly due to the sound environment.