Illustration depicting prehistoric communication by Skinkeape
Illustration by Skinkeape

Work Culture

Prehistoric communication still rules the office, but it doesn’t have to

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Published on April 29, 2019

In 1943, with the Second World War raging, MIT needed a new building to house its radar development program.

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A hyperactive, highline workflow worked for our prehistoric ancestors because their interactions were constrained by technology—or, more precisely, the lack of it.

The impact of interruptions is huge. In 2010, US knowledge workers lost 28% of their day—two hours and six minutes—to interruptions. 

The Work Foundation predicts that over 70% of the workforce will either partially or wholly operate without an office by 2020.