The Summit was hosted at the Sasaki-designed Microsoft New England Research and Development (NERD) Center and examined how technology is transforming the way we work. Rather than celebrate cutting-edge workplace technology, the summit put into question how technology both helps and hinders our work.

After introductions from Liz Pawlak, Vice President of the Design Museum Foundation, and Liz Eskenazi, Principal Consultant & Executive Coach at Mind the Core, Sasaki principal Victor Vizgaitis, AIA, LEED AP gave a presentation called “Human-Driven, Tech-Powered Spatial Design.” In the talk, he cautioned against meaningless technology in the workplace, emphasizing its power as a tool over a flashy display. “How can technology as a tool allow us to be more thoughtful and creative, rather than being a solution in and of itself?” Vizgaitis asked.

Throughout the day, other industry leaders presented on a range of topics, including the importance of soft skills in the workplace, the implicit bias in technology, and the impact of technology on our wellbeing. Sasaki also led tours through the NERD Center, sharing insight into the office’s innovative design with other attendees.

For more on technology’s role in the workplace, read this article written for the Design Museum Foundation’s magazine by Sasaki architect Meredith McCarthy, AIA. The article, titled “What’s the best technology in today’s workplace? Design,” advocates for thoughtful design choices that facilitate human interaction in offices.