- I think the first thing we need is a definition.
What is the modern workplace?
What sets it apart from the past?
Is it the tools we work with, or the way we work, or both?
My personal opinion is that the modern workplace
is defined by the tools, the methods,
and when and where we work.
When I talk about tools, I'm talking about
an assortment of software and hardware.
To me, it's not just collaborative platforms,
like O365 or Slack, it's also the video conference
enabled rooms, the digital whiteboards.
By extension, the wide range of mobile
and remote access opportunities.
Methods to me means the business frameworks we use
to organize and direct work.
Things like applying agile methodologies to a broader
range of business activities, or the move away
from distinct development and operations
to a mixed DevOps environment are examples for this.
When and where we work is something else
that's changing rapidly.
I'm not just talking about working remotely,
although that's certainly a part of it.
I'm also talking about changes in physical working areas
to open space plans or mixed spaces.
I'm also thinking about the move from
structured business hours to almost a
always available approach that lets people work
when it's best for them.
So modern workplace is a pretty content rich term, right?
As we go through the course, I'll dive into these topics
more deeply and discuss how they
might play out in the real world.
I won't go too detailed into individual technologies,
although I will talk about the general terms
and tell you where to go for more information.
My goal is to give you enough of an overview
that you'll have a good grounding if you wanna pursue
a specific topic in greater depth.
I'll also be giving you my biased opinions on things.
Although I'll let you know when I'm editorializing.
Not everyone will agree with all my opinions, either,
but with years of experience under my belt,
I think I have some credibility
and at the very least, I'll perhaps give you an alternate
viewpoint to consider.
With all that as a preface, are you ready to get started?
Okay then, let's do it.