Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of the Connected Workplace
The connected workplace market is experiencing unprecedented growth momentum, as a result of the rapid spread of technology, changing regulatory frameworks, and heightened expectations of seamless, efficient work environments. In response, industry leaders, including system vendors, IT systems integrators, and the newest AI start-ups, are investing heavily in advanced solutions, such as smart sensors, automation, IoT, and biometrics. These technology-driven differentiators not only enhance operational efficiencies, but also reshape the end-user experience, thereby influencing market positioning. Green building practices have also become a critical factor in vendor selection. The opportunities for growth are expanding, particularly in North America and Asia-Pacific, where strategic deployments are redefining the workplace through 2024–25. Strategic planners and C-level decision makers must stay abreast of these developments to seize emerging opportunities and to navigate the complexities of the evolving landscape.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
These vendors offer comprehensive solutions that integrate various aspects of workplace connectivity and collaboration.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Cisco Systems |
Robust networking and collaboration tools |
Unified communications and collaboration |
Global |
| Microsoft |
Seamless integration with Office 365 |
Productivity and collaboration tools |
Global |
| Google |
Cloud-native collaboration suite |
Cloud productivity and collaboration |
Global |
| Salesforce |
Leading CRM with collaboration features |
Customer relationship management |
Global |
| SAP |
Enterprise resource planning integration |
Business process management |
Global |
| IBM |
AI-driven workplace solutions |
Cloud and AI technologies |
Global |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These vendors focus on niche solutions that enhance specific aspects of the connected workplace.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Zoom Video Communications |
High-quality video conferencing |
Video communication and collaboration |
Global |
| Slack Technologies |
Real-time messaging and collaboration |
Team communication platform |
Global |
| Atlassian |
Agile project management tools |
Collaboration and project management |
Global |
| Dropbox |
User-friendly file sharing |
File storage and collaboration |
Global |
| Box |
Enterprise-grade security for file sharing |
Cloud content management |
Global |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
These vendors provide the necessary hardware and infrastructure to support connected workplace solutions.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Amazon |
Scalable cloud infrastructure |
Cloud services and infrastructure |
Global |
| RingCentral |
Comprehensive communication platform |
Unified communications as a service |
Global |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- Space iQ (US): Space iQ is a workplace management platform that integrates space planning, employee experience and analytics. Recently signed a contract with several Fortune 500 companies to optimize their office space post-pandemic. Challenges the big vendors by delivering more bespoke solutions.
- HqO (USA): Provides tenant experience platforms that enhance employee engagement and productivity in commercial real estate. They have recently implemented their solutions in a number of high-rise buildings in New York and have positioned themselves as a strong competitor to the more established property management systems.
- Envoy (US): Envoy provides visitor management and workstation solutions that improve office operations. It is now a partner of a large technology company to enhance its hybrid work model. Envoy has been focusing on its usability and integration capabilities to take on the established players.
- America: Knotel, a flexible work environment that serves the needs of modern businesses. The company has just expanded to Europe and is competing with traditional office space operators.
- Wizdom (Europe): Offers a digital office platform that enhances collaboration and communication among remote teams. They have been gaining ground in the Nordic countries, where remote work is common, and have positioned themselves as a regional champion against bigger, more established players.
Regional Trends: In 2023, there is a significant trend towards hybrid working models, and the use of technology is increasing to support remote collaboration and employee engagement. North America and Europe are the leading regions for the implementation of connected workplace technology, with a focus on the end-user experience and integration capabilities. Challengers are emerging, with a focus on specific needs such as space management and the tenant experience. These offer a more agile and bespoke solution.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- Cisco and ServiceNow entered into a partnership to integrate their platforms, aiming to enhance IT service management and improve workplace productivity, thereby strengthening their competitive positioning in the connected workplace market.
- Microsoft acquired Miro, a collaborative whiteboard platform, to bolster its Teams offering, enhancing remote collaboration capabilities and increasing its market share against competitors like Zoom and Slack.
- Zoom and Slack announced a collaboration to streamline communication tools for remote teams, enhancing user experience and solidifying their positions in the growing connected workplace ecosystem.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Biometric Self-Boarding |
NEC Corporation, Gemalto |
NEC has implemented biometric self-boarding solutions in major airports, enhancing passenger flow and reducing wait times. Gemalto's technology is widely adopted in various transport hubs, showcasing strong integration with existing systems. |
| AI-Powered Ops Mgmt |
IBM, Cisco |
IBM's Watson AI is utilized for predictive maintenance and operational efficiency in smart buildings, while Cisco's AI-driven analytics platform optimizes resource allocation and enhances workplace productivity. |
| Border Control |
Thales Group, SITA |
The solutions for border control from Thales are based on the most advanced facial recognition systems, which improve security and speed of processing. SITA’s Smart Borders solutions have been implemented in several countries and have proven to be an effective integration with national security systems. |
| Sustainability |
Schneider Electric, Johnson Controls |
Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure platform enables real-time energy management, significantly reducing carbon footprints. Johnson Controls focuses on smart building technologies that enhance energy efficiency and sustainability practices. |
| Passenger Experience |
Amadeus, Travelport |
Amadeus offers personalized travel solutions that enhance the passenger journey through data-driven insights. Travelport's platform integrates various travel services, improving overall customer satisfaction and engagement. |
Conclusion: Navigating the Connected Workplace Landscape
In conclusion of our analysis of the Connected Workplace Market by 2023, we can see that competition is heating up, with a notable degree of fragmentation among the players. The leading companies, both legacy and emerging, are deploying a range of advanced features such as artificial intelligence, automation, and a focus on sustainability. The regional trends point to a greater focus on flexibility as companies seek solutions that can be adapted to different working environments. For the market leaders, the ability to integrate these features will be critical. The most successful companies will be those who continue to develop and adapt to the changing needs of the workplace.
