Fears about coronavirus transmission have paralyzed the nation’s businesses, spooked its investors, and forced millions of people to quarantine themselves. But as a period of voluntary isolation begins, one could also think of this as a historic opportunity for experimentation in the workforce of the future.

Yes, some workplaces depend on the physical presence of their employees. Some of these (healthcare, for example) are indispensable and will continue to function as usual. Others (restaurants) will probably see business curtailed, at least for a time.