Enabling circular futures of workspaces through facility management : a backcasting approach

Background and aim. Circularity plays a key role in future-proofing workspaces. Sharing and digitalisation are efficient circular strategies which allow for flexibility, multifunctionality, and maximising the use of existing assets. We aim to provide insights on future facilities management (FM) practices which would promote the green and digital twin transition in the workspace context. Method. We employ the futures studies method of backcasting and engage 14 topic experts in three workshops. Each workshop centres around one preferable circular future. The first focuses on shared and collaborative use of corporate offices, the second on rural hubs as the most popular physical workspaces outside homes, and the final on hybrid and virtual spaces as the most popular workspaces overall. The experts are facilitated to devise actions needed for the respective circular future to realise by 2035.
Results. Findings reinforce the notion that collaborative spaces are dependent on hybrid and virtual spaces, and that the two are complimentary of one another. To increase uptake of both, creative content and social activities should be provided both at the workspace and in the local community, delivered through e.g., a community manager. The future workspaces will resemble traditional town marketplaces, where the community gathers to meet and do business.
Practical or social implications. The results emphasise the importance of a skilled service provider,engaged in both the technical management of the physical and virtual space, and community management. Through transformative practices, FM has the potential to ensure a functioning and engaging physical and digital workspace.