[orestes910]

I think it comes down to performance measurement being a really weak area for many companies. No one really knows whats real when it comes to output over a 40 hour week, and so bosses are afraid of getting shafted by an employee whom they can't see toiling away at their desk.

It's all but fact that a 40 hour work week doesn't result in 40 hours of productivity. Those non productive hours are seen as acceptable in an office for some reason, but when you're at home and can fire up a video game, it's sacrilege.

[colordrops]

The fact is that not everyone has the discipline to be productive while working remotely, and a company requires a different way of hiring, operating, and measuring to support remote work.

[mc32]

Coordination is easier too when projects involve the cooperation of multiple individuals to get things accomplished. Escalating to more senior people is also easier when someone can walk over and ask for help in some situations.

[snarf21]

You are right that employers want "proof" and butts in seats is a proxy. Having everyone go remote also requires changes to process and communications to keep people in sync. It requires tools and works to get everyone on the same page and keep them there. Most companies don't want to evolve to solve this, it is easier to rent a building.