Feasibility, impact and scalability study: “Making remote working solutions in the Alps successful”
Abstract
In response to the dynamic landscape of remote work and
coworking spaces, collaborative initiatives have been undertaken
by the AlpSatellites partners from France, Italy,
and Austria. These endeavours aim to explore inventive
solutions that effectively tackle the challenges and seize the
opportunities presented by the transformative shift in this
paradigm. Particularly emphasized during action 1.3 of the
project, the primary focus was on crafting solutions tailored
to the distinctive needs of each territory. The subsequent final
phase of the project involved a comprehensive analysis
of the solutions devised by all partners.
This document includes the various feasibility studies conducted
by each country for their respective solutions. While
there are shared characteristics and challenges among
the countries, the regions also exhibit notable differences.
Consequently, the maturity level of each country’s solution
varies, reflecting the nuanced considerations inherent in
addressing the diverse landscapes and demands of remote
work and coworking spaces.
Each country therefore represents increased focus on either
the financial and/or technical viability and/or scalability of
the proposed solutions, their potential social, economic
and/or environmental impact and their transferability.
The French partners adopted a collaborative approach,
engaging regional stakeholders in the last phase of action.
They conducted a feasibility study using an Action Sheet
and a Business Model Canvas, focusing on a shared digital
platform for remote workers in a new territory. The proposed
platform aims to provide practical information and
enhance the remote worker experience, with a cost-effective
strategy financed by local authorities, subsidies, and
potential European funding, to be validated by a team coordinated
by PETR (Pôle d’Equilibre Territorial et Rural1) and
in agreement with communes.
Italy implemented a methodology to assess the economic
feasibility of establishing coworking spaces. The evaluation
considered operational costs and potential revenues, providing
insights into the viability of such spaces in different
geographical sub-areas.
Austria, recognizing the transferability of its solution, structured
a comprehensive framework and guidelines for implementing
similar projects. The feasibility and impact study,
designed as a set of guidelines, utilized various tools such as
the Business Model Canvas, SWOT analysis, and risk matrix.
The proposed solution from action 1.3 was approached as
a project, necessitating a classical project management approach,
with a focus on clear goals, feasibility/resource lists,
cost-benefit analysis, and risk assessment.
Each country’s approach was unique, tailored to its specific
needs and regional characteristics. The collaboration
among key stakeholders, clear goal setting, feasibility studies,
and risk assessments were common threads binding
these initiatives. The following sections delve into the specifics
of each country’s strategy and findings, providing a
comprehensive understanding of their endeavours in navigating
the remote work and coworking landscape.
The whole document is structured as follows. The first country
introduced is France since they conducted a very generic
feasibility study, followed by Austria with a more concrete
management approach. The last country is Italy with the
most detailed feasibility study. In chapter 2 we present the
methodology each country followed, explaining how the
feasibility study and whole process was conducted. Chapter
3 is the heart of the document representing the findings of
each feasibility study. The last chapter is a small summary
and conclusion of the document.
In conclusion, the collaborative efforts undertaken in France,
Italy, and Austria reflect a commitment to addressing the
challenges and opportunities presented by remote working
and the establishment of coworking spaces. In France, the
focus on a shared digital platform for remote workers involved
a meticulous feasibility study, utilizing tools such as
the Action Sheet and Business Model Canvas. The approach
emphasized clarity, collaboration, and a strategic orientation,
reflecting a comprehensive understanding of remote
workers’ needs. In Italy, the economic feasibility analysis for
coworking spaces in the Aosta Valley demonstrated a methodical
approach, considering operational costs, potential
revenues, and a unique estimation of market potential. Despite
acknowledged limitations, the study provided a comprehensive
assessment, highlighting both opportunities
and threats for the Unité des Communes Valdôtaines Evancon.
Austria presented a solution designed for transferability,
offering a detailed framework and guidelines for implementing
similar projects. The feasibility and impact study
encompassed a SWOT analysis, risk matrix, and a thorough
assessment of resources, costs, and benefits. The proposed
solution emphasized not only financial aspects but also the
social, cultural, and economic enrichment that such initiatives
can bring to diverse regions.
Each case study exhibited a commitment to efficient management,
cost-saving strategies, and the consideration of
local needs to enhance feasibility. Among other public-private
partnerships were suggested repeatedly as a means
to support the economic viability of coworking spaces. The
potential impacts on economic diversification, environmental
sustainability, and social cohesion were highlighted, underscoring
the positive contributions of these initiatives to
regional development.
In essence, these initiatives demonstrated a holistic approach,
acknowledging the multifaceted nature of challenges
and opportunities related to remote working and
community/coworking spaces. As regions continue to explore
innovative solutions, the lessons learned from these
collaborative efforts can serve as valuable guides for future
projects, promoting sustainable development, economic
growth, and community well-being.
Origin | Files produced by the author(s) |
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