By: Jorge Valdés Garciatorres, MDO, PMP
It is not the most intellectual of the species that survives; it is not the strongest that survives; but the species that survives is the one that is able best to adapt and adjust to the changing environment in which it finds itself.
Charles Darwin
Understanding how different elements interact is a fundamental step for making informed decisions, especially in the ever-evolving landscape of work. Systems thinking is a holistic approach that helps us recognize the interdependencies and patterns within any given situation, moving beyond linear cause-and-effect analysis. The DSRP model, developed by Cabrera & Cabrera (2015), is a practical, simple, elegant and powerful application of systems thinking that encourages us to explore four key components: Distinctions, Systems, Relationships, and Perspectives.
This approach provides a structured way to dissect complex topics and discover deeper insights, making it an ideal framework for understanding the work trends of Remote, Hybrid, and On-site models.
It’s been a while now that the “not-attending-to-the-office” option of work has be available in the neighborhood, however the COVID-19 pandemics exacerbated and “democratized” this possibility. Since then the landscape is constantly shifting, and terms like “Remote,” “Hybrid,” and “On-site” have become buzzwords defining our professional lives. As organizations and collaborators adapt to this so called “new normal”, it’s of paramount importance to apply a systematic and adaptable approach to truly understand these work trends.
As I mentioned, the DSRP model—standing for Distinctions, Systems, Relationships, and Perspectives—proposed by the Cabrera Research Lab provides an insightful lens to navigate this dynamic terrain (Cabrera & Cabrera, 2015). Let’s delve into how we can explore these work trends through this powerful framework.
The DSRP model encourages us to draw distinctions, separating concepts into clear, defined elements. At the core, we need to understand what makes each work trend unique.
Remote work is defined by the complete flexibility of location, allowing collaborators to work from anywhere, offering freedom and autonomy. It’s a model that has seen rapid adoption in recent years, especially during the pandemic (Staffing Industry, 2023).
The hybrid work model is a blend of both worlds, where employees split their time between remote and on-site work, aiming to combine the best aspects of each environment (Hoxton Mix, 2022). This model offers flexibility while retaining a sense of community and collaboration.
Finally, the on-site work model represents the traditional concept of being physically present in a dedicated office space, providing structure, in-person interactions, and access to resources, which some collaborators and industries find essential (Cloud Assess, 2023).
By making these distinctions, we recognize that each model serves different needs and preferences, both for organizations and employees.
The next step in the DSRP approach is to analyze these models as systems, acknowledging how each one interacts within a broader organizational context. This means considering factors such as technology, company culture, employee well-being, and productivity.
Technology is the backbone of remote work, with platforms like Zoom, Slack, and Microsoft Teams becoming integral, facilitating communication and collaboration despite physical distance (OfficeRnD, 2022).
Hybrid models also depend on technology but must balance it with in-person interactions to maintain engagement. Company culture and identity play a significant role in these trends. For hybrid and on-site work environments, building and maintaining company culture can be more straightforward due to regular face-to-face interactions. However, remote work challenges organizations to find innovative ways to keep culture alive, often requiring a deliberate effort to foster connection (Pixel2HTML, 2023).
Collaborators well-being is another key factor. Remote work offers flexibility, but it can also blur the boundaries between work and personal life, leading to burnout. Hybrid models attempt to address this by providing options, while on-site work can offer more structure but might lack the flexibility many collaborators now desire (Staffing Industry, 2023). Seeing these trends as interconnected systems allows us to appreciate how each element influences the others. No model exists in isolation; they are all part of a larger ecosystem that impacts engagement, productivity, and organizational success.
Next step under this approach would be understanding Relationships—the dynamic interactions between elements within a system. Let’s explore how these work trends interact with organizational goals, collaborator’s needs, and external factors.
Adaptability and talent retention emerge as a significant relationship, as the flexibility of remote and hybrid work is essential nowadays in attracting and retaining talent, especially as collaborators increasingly value work-life balance. Organizations that embrace these trends can build stronger relationships with their workforce, leading to higher engagement and loyalty (Hoxton Mix, 2022).
Collaboration and innovation are also impacted by these models. On-site work offers spontaneous interactions that can spark creativity and innovation, while remote work often requires intentional efforts to foster collaboration.
Hybrid models aim to bridge this gap, allowing employees to choose when they need the benefits of in-person collaboration and when they can work independently (Cloud Assess, 2023).
Client expectations and business goals also play a role. Certain industries or roles may demand more on-site presence due to the nature of their work, such as manufacturing or healthcare. In contrast, tech companies may find remote work more feasible.
The relationship between the work model and organizational goals is vital in determining the right balance (Pixel2HTML, 2023). By examining these relationships, we see how organizations can tailor their work models to align with both internal and external factors, ultimately achieving a harmonious balance that meets diverse needs.
Now it’s time to adopt different perspectives to gain a holistic understanding. Looking at work trends through the lenses of collaborators, organizations, and society reveals different insights.
From an employee perspective, many now prioritize flexibility and autonomy, leading to a preference for remote or hybrid models. However, others thrive in structured, on-site environments where they can separate work from home life and benefit from face-to-face interactions (Staffing Industry, 2023).
Organizations must weigh the benefits and challenges of each model. Remote work can reduce overhead costs and expand talent pools, but it requires investment in technology and training.
On-site work offers more control but limits access to diverse talent. The hybrid model presents a compromise but requires careful planning to manage effectively (OfficeRnD, 2022).
From a societal perspective, the rise of remote and hybrid work has broader implications, such as reducing carbon footprints and reshaping urban landscapes. As more people work remotely, there is less commuting, leading to potential environmental benefits and a shift in how cities and communities are designed (Hoxton Mix, 2022).
By shifting perspectives, we recognize that work trends are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, they must be adapted to fit the unique needs of individuals, organizations, and society.
The DSRP approach provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the complexities of remote, hybrid, and on-site work trends. By making distinctions, analyzing systems, exploring relationships, and shifting perspectives, organizations can make informed decisions that align with their goals, culture, and the evolving needs of their workforce.
As we move forward, it’s essential to remain adaptable and open to change, just as the DSRP model encourages. The future of work is not about choosing one model over another but about finding the right balance and embracing the unique opportunities each trend offers
References
- Cabrera, D., & Cabrera, L. (2015). Systems Thinking Made Simple: New Hope for Solving Wicked Problems. Odyssean Press.
- Staffing Industry (2023). Remote, Hybrid, On-site – Oh My!
- Hoxton Mix (2022). Remote vs Hybrid vs On-Site – Which Works for Your Business?
- Cloud Assess (2023). Onsite, Remote & Hybrid Workers: What Works Best for You?
- OfficeRnD (2022). Hybrid vs Remote Work: Pros, Cons & How to Make It Work
- Pixel2HTML (2023). Remote, Hybrid, Onsite Work: Which is Right for Your Team?
