Knocking On Office Doors

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated hybrid working models and required new approaches to leadership and collaboration. This study reflects on a series of shorter stints of ethnographic fieldwork spanning over 14 months exploring the practical implications of hybrid work environments in SMEs. The primary focus of this paper is on the challenges encountered in accessing the research field during the ethnographic research. Our study highlights the challenges and opportunities that arise in the design and practical application of research in hybrid work environments in SMEs. It demonstrates that hybrid working conditions require flexible and adaptable research methods to capture the complex realities of modern work practices. Despite access issues and confidentiality concerns, the ethnographic approach provided valuable insights into the practices and structures of hybrid teams. This paper aims to stimulate discussion on effective research designs and strategies to support hybrid work environments and contribute to HCI research. By fostering a deeper understanding of the dynamics and challenges of hybrid teams in SMEs, with an emphasis on the strategies for accessing these organizations.