The study found 82 percent of those surveyed have no plans for reducing office space. However, 22 percent will move to primarily remote operations during the same period and 9 percent will operate completely remotely. That is a dramatic increase as before the pandemic, only 4 percent were completely virtual before the pandemic.

The economic survey was conducted July 18 through August 28 and received 1,067 qualified responses who hold positions such as chief financial officer or controller, in their companies. Supplemental questions were asked about the plans for the next 12 months.

Half of those surveyed intend to return principally or entirely to traditional onsite operations, provided restrictions are eased or not in place, while 15 percent said remote work was never an option. No change to physical footprints is expected by 77 percent while 18 percent expect some consolidation in the next 12 months. Five percent plan to give up 50 percent or more of their and 5 percent plan to increase space.

Seventy-four percent of companies will mandate mask while 71 percent will offered socially distanced work space. Personal protection equipment will be offered by 64 percent and 52 percent will screen workers.