Young woman on laptop with mug

How Tech Companies Are Trying To Help Reverse the Remote Work Trend



Employees At Home

Flashing back to March of 2020, tech companies were focused on helping companies make remote work possible. Health, safety, and telecommunications were the focus. For example, Heineken NV (HEINY) ensured workers maintained social distancing and kept tabs on occupancy levels through HqO’s office app.

More recently, those same tech firms are working to reverse the work-from-home trend. Apps and gathered data are being used to try to make for a more fun, safe, and efficient workplace. Other companies are using their technical prowess to ensure offices are better suited for hybrid work schedules in consideration of design, food, air quality, and conference rooms.

WeWork Wades In

Among the prominent names focused on workplace software is WeWork (WE), which has had a rocky past few years. Its main function is the ability to secure short-term leases for shared office space. Following the company’s failed 2019 IPO, the firm has shedded leases and instead focused on workplace software.

WeWork executives hope their app will help convince workers to return to offices. It empowers employees to post company announcements, reserve space in the conference room, and even register for yoga classes. Some industry experts estimate the growing office-software business is in the billions of dollars, meaning it could provide a long-term path to success for WeWork and other companies.

Labor Landscape Has Shifted

Broadly speaking, companies of all shapes and sizes are confronting the same reality: workers are going to the office less often. Analysts say that’s opened up a series of new challenges and concerns that the tech sector can help solve.

Cisco (CSCO) is one such tech company. It offers background noise canceling software for conference calls and a space-management tool that tracks how office space is used. Honeywell (HON) has a similar product called People Counting, which analyzes security camera footage to keep a real-time log of who is in office. The tech world helped workers go remote, now they’re hoping to lead a grand return.

Things are changing daily within the financial world. Sign up for the SoFi Daily Newsletter to get the latest news updates in your inbox every weekday.

Sign up


Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.
The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.
Communication of SoFi Wealth LLC an SEC Registered Investment Adviser
SoFi isn’t recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.
SOSS22080303


All your finances.
All in one app.

SoFi QR code, Download now, scan this with your phone’s camera

All your finances.
All in one app.

App Store rating

SoFi iOS App, Download on the App Store SoFi Android App, Get it on Google Play

James Flippin ABOUT James Flippin James Flippin is the son of a financial advisor who grew up hearing and learning about bond yields, interest rates, the stock market, and the ins and outs of Wall Street. After stints as a licensing and business broker for Marcus and Millichap in New York City, James moved into broadcasting and became a reporter and anchor. He covered crime, politics, finance, and tech at NBC News Radio while working part-time as a producer for SiriusXM. James graduated from the University of Delaware with a bachelor’s degree in political science and economics. He's also an accomplished podcaster with over 10-years of experience.


TLS 1.2 Encrypted
Equal Housing Lender