Thread by @HundredthIdiot

Localism Optimism: Remote work could drive localism in non-obvious ways.

Large firms that try to tackle new problems with fully remote work forces will leave a gap for local firms to tackle these high complexity issues with the edge of colocation.

You see this now when large multi-nationals try to muscle in on local firms, but I think there's a potential for this trend to be exasperated as newer generations demand remote work (efficient or not), so they can raise families close to their support networks.

Refinement culture is making our local culture more interesting. Every coffee shop looks the same now no matter where in the world you are. The hipster restaurant trend has homogenized experience, giving something for us to contrast our unique local establishments against.

Another instance of contrast:
It used to be hard to afford consumer goods, now the first 3 pages on amazon are all cheap but low quality goods. It's made local quality more obvious. It's clear what you're paying for now.

Remote work + the lockdown experience has made employers and employees more forgiving about the challenges of raising children. Families may take less of a career hit for having a child as remote part-time work becomes more acceptable.

Another weird coincidence of the lockdown:
The benefits of walkable, human scale streets and outdoor dining has become obvious. Cities are converting streets back to walking malls across the country, enhancing the physical space we share.

The more people working remotely, the more our rural internet infrastructure will be upgraded through rural business spending and consumer support.