By investing in technology to create inclusive workplaces and adopting a people-first approach to culture, HR can drive individual and collective success in 2025.
By Rebekah Wallis
In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, the key to unlocking potential lies in fostering environments where people feel valued, motivated, and equipped to thrive. With productivity and growth at the forefront of the U.K. government’s priorities, businesses must embrace a “people-first” approach to technology and culture.
By investing in innovative tools and creating supportive, inclusive workspaces, organisations can empower employees to succeed, driving both individual and collective success towards 2025. But to truly support people, technology must be viewed as an enabler rather than a mere tool.
This is reflected by leading analysts at IDC who have identified the primary trend for the future of work as the use of tech to boost productivity and enhance user experience in flexible work environments.
This underscores how technology that reduces friction and promotes productivity is essential in a hybrid workspace, both for attracting and retaining talent. The right tech can improve job satisfaction by freeing up time for more meaningful work.
There’s a clear theme—it’s not only about equipping people with technology—it’s about aligning it to their needs and work styles.
Ricoh’s commitment to empowering employees focuses on three core strategies.
- Utilising data to understand employee needs. Leveraging data and feedback mechanisms helps gather insights on how employees interact with both the office and technology. Real-time occupancy data and employee feedback drive informed decisions, crafting workplace policies that align with employee preferences and enhancing retention and engagement.
- Optimising workspaces with technology. Workspaces—whether physical offices, remote setups, or hybrid arrangements—remain critical hubs for collaboration, innovation, and productivity. To meet employees’ needs, Ricoh focuses on creating environments that foster creativity and teamwork, regardless of location. Simple tech-driven solutions, like app-based desk bookings and seamless virtual collaboration tools make workspaces more accessible and enjoyable. By prioritising flexibility and equipping employees with the tools and support they need, employers can create spaces—both physical and digital—where people genuinely want to engage and thrive.
- Collaborating across HR and IT. A strong relationship between HR and IT is essential in today’s hybrid workplace. When technology supports seamless collaboration, employees feel more connected, regardless of their location. Yet, Ricoh research shows that only 30% of workers report feeling fully equipped for effective collaboration. Bridging this gap is not just about improving the work experience but also about boosting overall productivity.
These strategies highlight a shift toward an integrated approach to workplace experience that connects people, technology, and physical space.
Ricoh lives by the philosophy of “letting people succeed,” ensuring tools, environment, and culture are provided that empower both employees and customers to thrive.
Leaders must prioritise the often-overlooked elements of culture—values, norms, and behaviours—that shape the way employees engage with their work. Building a culture that values diversity, innovation, and collaboration is essential for sustained productivity.
The future of work depends on committing to crafting spaces where employees feel supported and engaged. By creating workplaces that people genuinely want to be part of, top talent can not only be retained but also propel organisations forward, positioning for continued success in an ever-evolving world.
Rebekah Wallis is the director of people and ESG at Ricoh U.K.
