Google soon will begin experimenting with new office designs aimed at accommodating employees working from home and on site. The designs include "Team Pods," featuring furniture on casters that can be easily rearranged; outdoor work areas with Wi-Fi, plus tables and chairs under open-air tents on wooden decks; and a "Campfire" meeting room where attendees sit in a circle surrounded by large virtual displays to collaborate with remote workers.

Some employers are no longer requiring that new hires have a college degree, with some saying such "arbitrary" requirements drive social and racial inequality. Employers say eliminating the degree provision in the hiring process gives them a competitive advantage in the market.

Total compensation for US workers increased by 0.9% in the first quarter, the biggest rise in 13 years, according to the Labor Department. Overall incomes were up 21.1% in March, boosted by unemployment aid and relief checks, while wages and salaries were up 1% in the first quarter and benefits increased by 0.6%.

Leaders can successfully transform culture by adopting the strategies of societal movements to inspire and bring employees together to work toward a shared purpose, write StrawberryFrog's Scott Goodson and Chip Walker. "Creating a movement around a shared purpose has the power to galvanize people. It motivates them at an emotional level," the pair write.

I’m drooling over Google’s new office design plans outlined in our top story today. Described by Daisuke Wakabayashi as “Ikea meets Lego,” these models combine form and function to create cool, beautiful spaces that nurture collaboration and productivity. My favorite is “Camp Charleston,” the outdoor Wi-Fi-enabled work area.

All it needs now is a fire pit for s’mores.

What would your dream workspace look like? Let me know! And pass this link on to a friend who needs to get this brief.