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Introduction
With a market capitalization of $1.18 trillion, Google is one of the largest companies in the world. However, in a cost-cutting move, Google is now encouraging some of its employees to share desks with their co-workers as part of its “Cloud Office Evolution” program.
Desk Sharing Plan for Google Cloud Employees
According to a recent report by CNBC, Google’s desk-sharing program will affect Google Cloud employees, which make up more than a quarter of Google staff. The desk-sharing plan will require workers to alternate their office days, either on Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays, to share their desk with another employee. On days when their desk is not assigned, they will use an “overflow drop-in space.” The goal of this initiative is to increase “real estate efficiency” and reduce the amount of real estate space Google pays for.
Personalizing Desks and Workspace Cleanliness
Many people like to personalize their desks, and levels of workspace cleanliness can vary wildly from person to person. To prevent potential arguments or fights over desk cleanliness, Google is setting up “neighborhoods” consisting of 200 to 300 people. A vice president or director will oversee each neighborhood to ensure smooth partner allocation and to maintain cleanliness and prevent personal items from occupying desks.
Booking Cap on Meeting Rooms
Google will implement a cap on the number of meeting rooms that employees can reserve to discourage them from occupying conference rooms instead of their designated desks.
Positive Desk Sharing Experience
Google wants to ensure that the desk-sharing experience is positive for its employees. An internal FAQ document explains that employees will agree on a basic desk setup and establish norms with their desk partner and teams to ensure a positive experience in the new shared environment.
Cloud Office Evolution and Employee Feedback
Google refers to the desk-sharing plan as a more efficient use of its workspace. Since returning to the office, Google has conducted surveys with Cloud employees to explore different hybrid work models and help shape the best experience. Google spokesperson told CNBC, “With this feedback, we’ve developed our new rotational model, combining the best of pre-pandemic collaboration with the flexibility and focus we’ve all come to appreciate from remote work, while also allowing us to use our spaces more efficiently.”
Conclusion
Google’s desk-sharing initiative suggests that the company is not finished with its money-saving measures. Despite having a market capitalization of over $1 trillion, Google is still looking for ways to reduce costs and increase efficiency.
