Electronic Arts cancels remote work: employees are obliged to work in the office again
Electronic Arts has officially announced the complete cancellation of the remote work policy and the return of employees to the offices for at least three days a week. This decision is part of the company's global strategy aimed at increasing creativity, innovation, and teamwork.
Here's What We Know
In an internal letter received by EA employees, CEO Andrew Wilson stressed that working in the office creates a "kinetic energy" that stimulates creativity and leads to unexpected breakthroughs in game development. From now on, hybrid working hours will mean being present in the local office at least three days a week, and roles with fully remote work will be gradually phased out.
EA Entertainment President Laura Miel said that the changes will be implemented gradually, with a minimum 12-week notice, and for employees living within 30 miles (48 km) of the office, the transition to a hybrid format will be mandatory. Those who live further away will remain in remote mode unless their position requires otherwise. The Offsite Local model will also be cancelled within the next 3-24 months.
However, the new policy has caused a wave of discontent among EA employees. Some employees complain about long hours on the road, childcare issues and medical conditions that previously allowed them to work from home. Others fear for their positions if they cannot move closer to the office.
It's worth noting that remote work has become the norm in the gaming industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, when most companies were forced to quickly adapt to the new environment. Since then, many studios have hired remote workers, and some employees have even moved to more accessible cities in the hope of working remotely on a regular basis.
However, recently, leading studios such as Rockstar Games, Ubisoft, and Activision Blizzard have also started to bring employees back to the offices, which has caused criticism and even an outflow of staff due to the difficulties with relocation and increased living costs.
Source: IGN
