Do we still need an office? A historical reading note

Historical reading note — updated 13 September 2026

This page was first published in March 2021 as part of our workplace reading collection. The earlier text reflected discussion of office life during the 2020 pandemic. We have clarified the title, source and historical context.

Original reading: “Do We Really Need the Office?” by Gretchen Gavett, Harvard Business Review, July 2020.

Read the original article: https://hbr.org/2020/07/do-we-really-need-the-office

An Exportunity perspective

Different activities need different working arrangements. A commercial discussion can begin online, while a machine inspection, workshop operation or shipment may require people on site. For each project, agree where the work happens, who is responsible and how findings will be shared.

Exportunity’s developing trade network brings digital coordination together with real business needs. Explore current services and start a conversation at https://exportunity.net/