Analysis Paralysis: Breaking Free from Indecision
Authored by Timothy Hawk, FAIA
Analysis Paralysis: Breaking Free from Indecision
A conversation on the future of the workplace in a post-pandemic world.
Over-thinking a problem is a problem in itself – a big one. Over the past several years we have seen the permanent disruption of the workplace. The COVID-19 pandemic brought the working world to a halt. But we adapted. Employers adopted remote working policies. Employees took to working from their living rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, or even the seat of their Peleton bike. The word “digital nomad” became so common it was probably a strong contender for word of the year. And we all know of folks who didn’t realize their Zoom video made it clear they were in their PJs. Now, as we begin to see light at the end of the tunnel, and a post-pandemic working world becomes visible on the horizon, we are paralyzed.
No one knows what the future of the workplace will be. As we weigh the pros and cons, and wrestle with every possible outcome, and follow the butterfly effect of each and every potential diversion, we’ve reached analysis paralysis. When we over analyze and overthink, we become vulnerable, become unable to make a decision, and revert to old ways. We don’t know the future of what the workplace can or will be because it’s uncertain, we don’t know what the future of the workplace will be because we are currently creating it.
An exercise in utility
In the summer of 2022, we hosted a knowledge event fittingly called Analysis Paralysis at the Teknion Chicago showroom. Architects, designers, and real estate brokers came together to ask questions about what the future of the workplace will look like – and more importantly – how we get there.
Through collaborative conversations, ideas and strategies for design, business, and talent were shared. We discovered that indecision around short-term challenges can create long-term impacts. In the ecosystem of architecture, design, real estate, and business, we must move forward. This summer’s event was the first step in starting the conversation and breaking free from indecision.
WORKPLACE CRAFTED
In the wake of Analysis Paralysis, we began a podcast series to keep the conversations going – literally. WORKPLACE CRAFTED explores the future of the workplace in a post-pandemic environment. Conversations with studio members, WSA leadership, and clients are shedding light on our process, strategies, and how we create environments that work today — and tomorrow.
What’s Next
Over the coming months, through our podcast, videos, and blog posts, our talented team of architects and experience designers will dive into how we uncover the future of the workplace. From workplace culture, to adaptive reuse, to equity and inclusion, and to the evolving role of the designer, we will keep the conversations going and continue to stay one step ahead. Join us.