Editor’s Note: Struggling to define the future of work? The intersection of IT, HR, and design holds the key to creating more meaningful, productive environments. ThinkLab’s latest research and insights shed light on how integrating these functions can transform the way we work. In Episode 7 of Design Nerds Anonymous, “The Future of Work: An Entanglement of IT, HR, and Design,” ThinkLab dives into a roundtable discussion with Brett Hautop (WorkShape), Holly May (former Chief People Officer at DataVant), and Bryan Hope (Ford). Together, they explore how organizations can navigate the complexities of hybrid work, manage “infobesity,” and align cross-functional goals to create spaces where employees thrive. We’ll be sharing abbreviated highlights here, exclusively for officeinsight readers.
The Big Idea: Intentionality Will Drive the Future of Work
The future of work requires deliberate integration of IT, HR, and design to foster connection, creativity, and outcomes-driven environments. Instead of defaulting to one-size-fits-all policies, leaders must embrace experimentation, focus on outcomes, and align workspaces with organizational goals and employee needs. While there are MANY insights in this episode, here are three of the key takeaways to decipher the future of the workplace:
Shift from Silos to Cross-Functional Alignment: ”If we have workplace teams only focused on the workplace, IT teams only focused on tools, and HR teams solely managing talent, we miss huge opportunities for value by connecting these dots,” said Holly May. She emphasized that aligning team and departmental goals with broader organizational outcomes is key to fostering innovation and collaboration.
Focus on Outcomes, Not Policies: ”Invest in becoming an outcomes-obsessed culture,” advised Bryan Hope. Clear objectives empower teams to decide how best to work—whether in the office, remotely, or a hybrid model. He also noted, “If everyone knows the outcome they need to deliver, you can delegate decision-making around how it actually gets done.”
Experiment and Learn Through Iteration: ”Companies need to take strategic risks by creating new space types and experiences—and measuring their success thoughtfully,” said Brett Hautop. He called for a shift from binary success metrics like occupancy rates to evaluating the quality of interactions and outcomes generated by workplace designs.
Building Workplaces for Connection and Belonging
Our panelists agreed that the future of work isn’t about choosing between remote or in-office models—it’s about aligning workplace strategies with employee needs and organizational goals. By intentionally designing environments and experiences, companies can foster deeper connections, meaningful collaboration, and sustained productivity.
This requires moving beyond traditional metrics, challenging old paradigms, and embracing a mindset of innovation. By rethinking how IT, HR, and design intersect, organizations can go beyond efficiency to create spaces where employees belong, collaborate, and thrive. The future of work isn’t static—it’s something we’ll shape together, one thoughtful decision at a time.
If this interests you, dive deeper into these findings by listening to episode 7 of season 6 of Design Nerds Anonymous, “The Future of Work: An Entanglement of IT, HR, and Design,” for more actionable insights from Brett, Holly and Bryan and if you would like to be included in ThinkLab’s next research study, join ThinkLab’s research community to share your perspective and help shape future insights. Sign up here to contribute your expertise and stay connected.