Traditional Workplace Environment for the New Millennium

"Traditional Workplace Environment for the New Millennium"
15 January 2023
A Draft Research Paper Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Graduation Requirements for the Degree of
MASTER OF MILITARY OPERATIONAL ART AND SCIENCE
Disclaimer
The views expressed in this academic research paper are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the US government or the Department of Defense. In accordance with Air Force Instruction 51-303, it is not copyrighted but is the property of the United States government. Table of Contents Disclaimer ii Table of Contents. iii Abstract iv Introduction. 2 Generational Differences and Perspectives. 2 Traditional Work Environment versus Current Working Environment 4 Impact on Warfighters. 5 Long-Term Planning for Leaders. 7 Sustainability for Each Generation. 8 Positive and Negative Approaches. 9 Conclusion. 11 References. 12 Annotated Bibliography: 14
Abstract
In the post-COVID-19 era, the transition from telework to office-based work has become a reality. Mixed reactions from workers affirm the presence of numerous risks associated with the transition, especially on values, perceptions, and preferences of different generations. The paper aimed to assess the impact of transitioning from remote working to office-based work after the pandemic by investigating generations X, Y, and Z. There have been varied responses from these generations based on expertise, preferences, innovative approaches, and expectation. The research focused on the three generations of warfighters based on evaluating their differences and perspectives and comparing features of traditional and telework environments. Based on the research, individuals from generations X, Y, and Z hold different perspectives on the working environment. Generation X prefers training and workplace autonomy over social contact and community-based working. On the other hand, generation Y (millennials) are inclined to find ways of career progress and training opportunities. Generation Z is the most tech-oriented group and holds traits from the other two. With these clear disparities, it can be deduced that people from these generations hold different perspectives about work. Generation X has a strong commitment to their work and enjoys social interaction. They also consider tech-based work inefficient. The basis for career progression for Generation X is hard work. On the other hand, generation Y prefers tech-based work and hardly seeks social approval and work-life balance. Generation Z holds the traits of both generations. The traditional work environment offers a restricting environment where individuals are expected to behave in a particular way. On the other hand, teleworking comes with a carefree and comfortable working environment without peer pressure. People can work on flexible timing and maintain a work-life balance.
With these apparent differences, generation X persons find it hard to transition to teleworking because they mostly live with their parents. There are reservations among people of all generations about continuously depending on the teleworking environment. After undertaking the analysis, the transitions from remote working on warfighters demonstrate that the natu...