In this ever-changing world, many of us have more flexibility than ever over the hours we work.

With the blurring of lines between work and leisure time, so too it has become more common for people to work remotely.  Think back 20 years ago, compared to today how many people worked from home for all or part of their working week?!

Advances in technology have gradually been driving this change to the traditional model. Superfast broadband, file-sharing, laptops and video conferencing have all contributed to staff working remotely, as efficiently and collaboratively as they could if they were physically in the office.

So does this mean we are saying farewell to the traditional office environment?

Of course, the answer to this question is likely to be heavily influenced by what industry you work in.

If you need access to equipment, such as manufacturing facilities, then it is difficult to be a virtual business.  Conversely, if you’re a freelance Graphic Designer, having a permanent office may well be an expense you can live without.

For many freelancers, consultants and indeed small businesses across a wide range of sectors, having an office has historically been a way to appear larger than they are actually are, or to host occasional onsite meetings with customers.

But with a plethora of flexible meeting rooms and the ability to have a virtual PA answer inbound calls on a pay-as-go model, many businesses have been able to move away from a significant fixed monthly cost of having an office set-up and enjoy the advantages of being a flexible virtual business.

Even many businesses that do require physical premises have been able to reduce one of their greatest costs – property – by reducing their footprint.  Hot desking, encouraging remote working and outsourcing non-core functions, from IT to HR, have enabled lean-working and careful cost management.

So when you next review your property strategy, think carefully about whether you reduce your fixed costs by employing a more flexible business model.