Alistair Craig, Managing Director at Anabas, provides an outlook for 2021.

2020 has been immensely challenging for many. But with positive news around vaccines, mass testing and relaxing of measures over the festive season, the new year is an opportunity to step forward into new territory and to use the resilience we have built in new initiatives.

We will stay focused on providing high quality services while supporting our clients in any challenges they may face. COVID-19 will fundamentally change the nature of how we work. We are not going to go back to exactly how we were in early 2020. In many senses the pandemic has accelerated the work-from-home/hybrid model that many organisations were beginning to adopt. The office will become a key workplace again in the coming months but the way it is used will be more efficient and with greater appreciation for the benefits it has to offer. The workplace as a social hub and a place for creative collaboration is dearly missed. Practical features such as fast internet connections, reliable technology, and quiet spaces for focused work, that some people don’t have at home, are also now much more appreciated.

During the pandemic we’ve developed more agile ways of working and we’re using new technology at many of our client sites, such as desk-booking and visitor management systems, to make workplace roles easier and safer. Our FM staff will be at the heart of integrating these innovations into the post-Covid workplace. The return to work will be streamlined with technology but communication and reassurance from FM staff will be at the heart of the process. The personal touch and ensuring a positive and safe customer journey have never been more important.

At Anabas, our people have been front and centre throughout the pandemic, from virtual engagement events to regular business updates to mental health and wellbeing support. We have continued to invest heavily in our people through training & development and have encouraged our staff to play to their strengths and use ingenuity. The post-pandemic era will be one of creativity and innovation.

The phrase ‘necessity breeds invention’ has never been more appropriate. Virtually everything we took for granted before the pandemic has changed. The development of a vaccine means an end to the pandemic is in sight. But the lessons learned during this difficult period shouldn’t be forgotten. We don’t know what changes are still to come but it is vital that we move forward together to create a brighter 2021.