Investing in smart technology and data visibility the key to workplace performance and productivity

AUSTRALIA, 8 September 2022 – While technology and data will be critical foundations in the future of real estate operations, the gap to fill this is immense and will require significant investment in the next three years, JLL’s global research has revealed.

According to JLL’s The Future of Work Survey 2022, only 13% of organisations globally consider themselves to have market-leading capabilities whereby they are collecting data on an ongoing or real-time basis and leveraging advanced forms of analysis.

59% of companies surveyed aren’t regularly capturing/reporting real estate data or are doing so only intermittently. 

Despite these findings, 55% of companies plan to bring in immersive technologies and virtual reality.

JLL conducted research among 1,095 senior CRE (corporate real estate) decision-makers through online research during April and May 2022. The survey covered 13 global markets, including 55 respondents in Australia.

The research provides a clear roadmap for CRE technology shaped around 15 anchor technologies, including workplace apps, remote working technology and virtual reality.

As organisations plan future investments, CRE leaders are focused on key strategic areas like sustainability and employee wellbeing.

JLL’s Chief Executive Officer of JLL Australia, Dan Kernaghan, said, “Now, more than ever, as we gradually come out of the pandemic, the job of managing a workplace needs to be in complete sync with the needs of modern workers.

“There has been a big shift in the approach to technology, from ‘infrastructure first’ to ‘people first’, which goes hand in hand with the sustainability agenda. While once it was driven by IT – from a technology infrastructure issues perspective – it is now a ‘people first’ strategy that comes directly from the top.

“As a result, the message for employees is now: ‘Here’s what we stand for as a company/business and here’s what we’re doing to make your work life seamless’. Sustained investment in smart technologies and data analytics is necessary to propel operational performance and resilience,” said Mr Kernaghan.

JLL’s Head of Research – Australasia, Andrew Ballantyne said, “Technology is a growth sector of the Australian economy. As the sector evolves we continue to see new types of jobs being created ranging from data detective, algorithm bias auditor, augmented-reality journey builder and metaverse planner.

“The technology sector will also have a significant impact on commercial real estate as a major occupier of office space, supporting new experiences in shopping centres and warehouse automation with more sophisticated supply chain management.”

JLL is investing in technology, sustainability and wellness in its corporate offices across Australia.

Late last year, the company moved into its new offices in Parramatta, showcasing the very best in technology, benchmark design elements and leadership in sustainability.

“This move for our Western Sydney team has given JLL’s people the latest and greatest in cutting edge technology, sustainability and design. We are focused on providing one of the best places to work, as we continue to grow our business and our people,” Mr Kernaghan said.

Meanwhile, JLL will move into its new Sydney headquarters – the landmark Sydney Place development at 180 George Street – in early 2023. Employing a people-focused design approach, the office tower, which will become Sydney’s tallest office building, has already been awarded a Platinum WELL rating.

“As a workplace of the future, 180 George Street will amplify the office experience for our people to do their best work,” said Mr Kernaghan.