Autodesk pioneers flexible ‘work from anywhere’ policy

CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES — Autodesk, the $30 billion software company behind popular design applications like AutoCAD and Maya, has rolled out a groundbreaking new “Flex Forward” hybrid work policy. 

This progressive initiative gives Autodesk managers the autonomy to decide optimal work arrangements for their 13,000+ employees across the globe.

“We want people to want to be [at the office]. We do not want them to have to be forced to be there,” Rebecca Pearce, Autodesk’s Chief People Officer told CNN. 

“At the end of the day, we don’t believe that just being in an office is what helps people to be happy, productive, collaborative [and] innovative.”

The company consolidated its offices during the pandemic, transforming its remaining spaces into collaborative hubs. 

Autodesk believes this shift towards location flexibility will boost employee satisfaction and retention. So far, voluntary attrition has already dropped 7% compared to last year.

Autodesk’s approach starkly contrasts the strict return-to-office mandates enforced by other tech giants like Apple and Amazon. Those companies faced significant internal and public criticism, including worker protests and walkouts.

The reimagined office layout has additionally led to major cost savings, providing spacious gathering areas that eliminate the need for expensive off-site meetings.

While remote work is fully supported, Autodesk still encourages in-person collaboration when beneficial to remain agile and competitive in a rapidly evolving work landscape.