Recently, Google conducted one of its largest mass layoffs ever. In January, it laid off approximately 12,000 employees.
Google may be resorting to desk sharing as a cost-cutting measure, according to a new report.
In a report published by CNBC, Google Cloud is implementing a new desk-sharing model across its five largest U.S. locations next quarter to increase real estate efficiency.
To avoid being at the same desk every day, most employees will share a desk with another employee and come in on alternate days.
Overflow drop-in spaces will be available to employees who come in on unassigned days. As part of broader cost-cutting measures, Google is reducing its real estate footprint. Cloud computing is one of Google’s fastest-growing units, but it is not yet profitable.
According to an internal Google document, “Most Googlers now share a desk with one another.” To ensure a positive experience in the new shared environment, they will set up a basic desk setup and establish norms with their desk partner and teams through the matching process.”
Generally, employees will share a desk with one other Googler and will alternate between Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday. Employees will be required to work two days a week instead of three.
Additionally, the company has organized employees into “neighborhoods” consisting of 200 to 300 employees and partners. Each neighborhood has a vice president or director who is responsible for allocating space.
