Role of remote working center in a hybrid work culture

Abstract

Remote Working Centers (RWCs) have gained popularity as alternative workspaces. However, to what extent are teleworkers willing to use RWCs in comparison to home and office considering transportation effects remains underexplored. This study investigates teleworkers' joint decisions on work location and transportation mode under different contexts. Using stated preference data collected in Tokyo Metropolis, Japan, a random parameter error component model was estimated, capturing the unobserved heterogeneity among teleworkers. The results indicate a preference for working in RWCs when tasks have a higher work intensity, involve teamwork, last between 4 and 6 h or longer. In general, the intention to travel to RWCs decreases with longer travel times. Females and high-income individuals are more likely to use RWCs. In accessing to RWCs, low-income individuals prefer active travel modes, while high-income individuals opt for public transportation or private cars. These findings provide insights for urban planners in shaping policies to promote the use of RWCs in a hybrid work culture.