I managed mixed WFH teams before COVID. It was widely understood that WFH was a productivity obstacle long before quarantines. We usually gave it as a perk to h

I managed mixed WFH teams before COVID. It was widely understood that WFH was a productivity obstacle long before quarantines. We usually gave it as a perk to high performing employees who had already proven their ability to get things done and self-manage, or for exceptional employees who couldn’t or wouldn’t relocate near an office. The idea that WFH is no different than in-office work didn’t really become popular until COVID. Offices and in-person communication are unmatched for collaboration and communication efficiency. Any company doing work that requires significant collaboration (most tech companies of size) pays a price for WFH. For many companies that overhead is fine if accounted for and managed, but it’s still a price.