Click & CoWork: Bedarfsanalyse für eine zentrale Coworking-Plattform in Oberösterreich

Abstract

Motivation and problem definition As a result of advancing digitalization and simultaneous social change in the world of work, the demand for flexible and location-independent workplaces is constantly increasing. Coworking spaces in particular are already becoming increasingly important in urban regions. The relevance of coworking offers is also increasing in Upper Austria, but some potential users do not even know that 48 spaces already exist or find it difficult to get an overview of these offers. In addition, many coworking spaces do not offer an online booking option, which is why there is a lack of a central digital platform for easy booking of workspaces and precise information about the available coworking offers in Upper Austria. The aim of this study is to analyze and survey the need for a central, digital platform for flexible workspace booking in Upper Austria. It also investigates the extent to which (potential) users would accept such an offer and how it should be designed. The work thus contributes to the promotion of new forms of work in rural areas and provides a basis for driving forward possible strategic developments in the coworking landscape in Upper Austria. Content structure and methodology The thesis is divided into a theoretical and an empirical part. The theoretical part initially refers to basic definitions, the historical development and the different types of coworking spaces. The structure of digital platforms is also explained and success factors are classified and analyzed. The empirical study is based on a qualitative and quantitative research approach. On the one hand, this provides insights into the operator's perspective based on expert interviews. On the other hand, an online survey reveals the requirements and assessments of (potential) users with regard to the current and future booking of coworking offers. Concrete results of the work The analysis shows a high demand for flexible, short-term as well as regular, long-term bookability of coworking spaces in Upper Austria. Existing challenges are inconsistent and partly missing digital booking and access systems. Rural operators in particular see great potential in this platform, as it can help to achieve greater visibility and common standards. Users demand simple and fast booking processes, transparent price and location overviews and flexible usage models.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	German (Austria)
Supervisor	Harald Kindermann (Supervisor)