I've done many multi-hour video calls switching between pairing and unrelated tasks with 1-2 co-workers on my primarily remote team. We talk both shop and not shop. It works well, plus any of us can exit the call to focus. I find it vastly more productive than an open-office.
Yes I agree. This informal communication is an under-appreciated aspect of an open-plan office.
I wonder whether remote teams can be structured to mimic the 'closeness' of co-located team members. Here's what I'm thinking:
1. Two colleagues work similar timezones
2. Each colleague has a dedicated TV screen with webcam 45 degrees to the left of their main computer screen
3. The TV screen displays an always-on Zoom meeting showing the webcam video and screencast of the remote colleague
4. At any time, communication is as simple as turning to the TV and saying, "Hey Bill, did you see the Cowboys game last night?"