Hot desking

Definition of hot desking

Hot desking is a modern approach to managing workspaces that promotes flexibility and efficiency in companies.

The English term "hot desking" is translated into French as "bureau flexible" in the dictionary. The translator also suggests "bureau partagé". This refers to a practice where employees no longer have an assigned workstation, but the option to choose a desk or space for their team, available according to their needs and tasks.

The term "hot desking" is often associated with desk sharing or flex office, which have fairly similar definitions.

The advantages and disadvantages of hot desking

The advantages of hot desking are numerous. It allows companies to optimise the use of their office spaces, reduce real estate costs and promote collaboration between employees.

This approach is linked to new ways of working. With the practice of remote work in a hybrid work setting, employees have the flexibility to work from different locations: in the office, at home or in coworking spaces. When they go to the office, flexibility continues with hot desking, where employees also have the option to choose their workspace, such as a meeting room or a desk.

However, the employer must ensure that certain challenges are resolved:

• Concentration: hot desking makes it possible to create different spaces, each with its own purpose, including quiet zones conducive to concentration, phone boxes or other telephone booths for working in peace.
• Change management: switching to a flexible environment requires a period of adaptation for teams, which is why employee support and involvement are essential phases for the success of the project.
• Storage of personal belongings and important documents: without an assigned workstation, it is important to offer employees a solution for storing their personal effects, such as lockers.

Hot desking office equipment

Offices equipped for hot desking often have modern infrastructures (open space, meeting room, etc.), state-of-the-art technologies and space management solutions such as a screen and a computer stand for each workstation. Companies can implement desk and flexible space booking software, making it easier for employees to organise themselves and manage available workstations and spaces.

The development of hot desking

Desk sharing has become a popular solution for millions of company employees, whether they are small start-ups or large organisations. Hot desking promotes flexibility, efficiency and optimal management of real estate resources, while meeting the changing needs of employees.

In summary

Hot desking, or flexible office, is an innovative approach to workspace management that offers greater flexibility to its users by giving them the opportunity to choose a workstation according to their needs, while allowing companies to optimise their spaces and thus create a more agile working environment.