An initiative to look at new ways of working could see more staff having the option to work from home or chose a location more suited to whatever task they need to undertake that day.

That’s the exciting prospect from a space utilisation exercise which is currently underway.

Many large organisations – such as NHS Tayside, Aberdeen City Council and Fife Council – are adopting the concept of flexible working as they adapt their workplaces and workforces to the requirements of the future.

The concept is already being embraced by NHS Lanarkshire in the new Houldsworth, Hunter Community and Kilsyth Community Health centres as well as Bellshill Community Health Clinic. The intention is to imbed it across the rest of the organisation.

Colin Sloey, executive director for strategic planning and performance, is overseeing the Lanarkshire initiative. He said: “The technological revolution is altering how we provide our services and how we engage with patients and colleagues.

“It’s also allowing more staff to work remotely from home or another base at times which better suit them.

“As this phenomena continues, it’s resulting in rooms and desks lying empty which is why we’re taking a look at how we utilise our existing estate.”

Typical desk utilisation surveys show usage across office space between 9am and 5pm is rarely above 40 per cent.

With technological advancements, an individual’s desk need is likely to decrease further.

Colin continued: “The modern work environment is no longer about owning a particular desk or space, but having guaranteed access to the right kind of facility to get tasks done.

“There will be occasions when this will be a desk, but it may suit to have a quiet workplace, a resource area, a training facility, a touchdown space or even your own home.

“Patients and service users correctly expect us to embrace new technology to improve health care and this will help us do this.

“It may even help make the school run a bit more manageable.”