Lead: Institutions are reconfiguring physical and digital infrastructure to support hybrid work and omnichannel service models. Universities are redesigning office footprints for flexible, collaborative work and investing in integrated contact centers that combine voice, video and text to support recruitment, advising and clinical operations. What happened: Campuses are experimenting with shared desks, collaboration zones and flexible layouts to reflect hybrid schedules. UC Riverside shifted to an internet‑based omnichannel contact center to route inquiries across modalities and reduce friction for students and staff. Who’s involved: campus planners, facilities directors, CIOs, student services and enrollment teams. Why it matters: Reimagined spaces and contact‑center platforms can cut operational costs and improve service, but they require new management practices, tech investments and change management to preserve student access and staff morale.
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