The mobile workforce of tomorrow is on the way.

The next generation of mobile is on the way—and sooner than we think. With lightning-fast mobile speeds, improved reliability, seamless connectivity and more, consumers and businesses alike can expect a dramatic transformation in the way people work.

As mobile networks of the future take shape, tomorrow’s workforce will increasingly leverage cutting-edge technologies to simplify and accelerate work—from meetings via hologram or virtual reality to AI-enabled tools that boost efficiency across a variety of tasks.

Many changes are already unfolding for today’s workforce, driven by employees who value engagement and productivity on mobile platforms, both in the office and at home. Organizations that fall short in redefining their workplaces and tools to meet employees’ evolving preferences will be left behind in the transformation.

According to a recent Deloitte report, businesses that promote a thriving digital workplace often reap significant benefits and positive business outcomes: increased productivity, a boost in employee satisfaction, improved workforce acquisition and retention, and more.

Paul Miller, CEO of Digital Workplace Group and co-author of The Digital Renaissance of Work, explained that the ability to be fully mobile—with or without Wi-Fi—makes work considerably simpler and more flexible. “Getting work done wherever we are is a game-changer,” he said. “We have aspired to this and 4G has certainly helped, but much richer and faster flows will make ‘Have you got a Wi-Fi password?’ less and less necessary.”

Facets of the digital workplace are already at play with today’s LTE. However, more widespread use of groundbreaking technologies like augmented and virtual reality in the modern workplace is expected with the rollout of next-generation mobile networks.

These initiatives exist in concept form today, offering a preview of intelligent digital workplaces and a new level of flexibility for employees. Examples like Microsoft’s Envisioning Center and Liberty Mutual’s AI-fueled assistant Workgrid fit into that forecast—upping the adaptability and simplicity of modern work with features like interactive desktops, seamless cross-platform workflows and more. But these innovations can’t reach their full potential without high-performing mobile networks.

Ultra-high speeds could also make for more seamless collaboration among staff members and teams, including an enhanced virtual meeting experience with clearer video. “We will find we can shift from device to device and maintain flow of communication, which will make online meetings easier and higher quality,” Miller said, adding that companies may even reduce travel costs as virtual meetings start to feel just as personal and productive as those conducted in-person.

When it comes to the workplace of the future, it’s important to highlight the surging number of Millennials and Gen Zers (representing an additional 61 million people to the workforce) with arguably higher expectations for the modern workplace.

Miller’s years of research demonstrate that Gen Zers expect top-notch digital workplace services. “This will lead to demands for more influence over when and where you work, so extra remote working will come with deep reductions in office-based working five days a week,” he said.

Valuing greater flexibility and engagement on the job isn’t simply generational, however. “We have five generations in the workforce, and there has been much attention on younger generations,” Miller said. "But in a tight employment market there will be more older workers, and [next-gen mobile networks] will enable more flexible working for this group.”

Across industries, maintaining an engaged and motivated staff is going to be even more crucial in 2020 and beyond. Since employee retention is tied in part to seamless communication within an organization, implementing the right tools to allow for easy information and dialogue exchange is essential.

For Miller, identifying the key components of digital workplace transformation is simple. First, in-person meetings will be replaced by more functional online meetings. Rather than spending time managing the typical delays, employees could connect instantly—whether they’re inside the same office building or collaborating cross-country. Next, organizations will have access to a wider and richer pool of data to improve their operations and business outcomes. Sales and marketing teams, for example, can leverage deeper insights into customer behavior. And finally, there will be less reliance on Wi-Fi as a connector in the modern workplace.

But in order to successfully invest in and implement new technology and attract first-rate employees, an organization can benefit from some soul-searching first. Miller shared this key early step for the enterprise preparing for the transforming workplace: Closely examine your organization’s culture and purpose.

An emphasis on core values and a compelling social mission could ultimately help leaders and drive revenue. For Miller, social responsibility is crucial if you’re hunting for top talent and aiming to build savvy teams that are ready for the transformation: “Especially if companies are to attract the younger workers who are currently at school and will arrive ready to join only organizations where they know they can make a difference.”

Originally published on Forbes.com.