Research shows that the right office environment can inspire people and motivate them to work harder and smarter. Business news site AllTopStartUps recently worked with Belle Skylights to produce a list of the top five ways to boost staff productivity by making a few simple changes at the office.
1 Natural light
Vitamin D deficiency is a huge problem in the UK, with millions affected. One side-effect is decreased mental clarity, which obviously hits productivity hard. One of the only natural sources of vitamin D is sunlight, so ensuring there’s plenty of it coming through windows or skylights is a great way to boost the mood at the office.
2 Ergonomics
Research earlier this year showed 31% of people in the UK have missed work due to back or neck pain caused by sitting at a desk all day. Companies can prevent this productivity drain by offering ergonomic chairs, variable height desks, and keyboard and computer mice that prevent repetitive stress injuries.
3 Break time
Previous App of the Week 30/30 is based on the idea of focusing on one task for 30 minutes at a time with a short break between each session. Managers should encourage employees to take quick breaks now and then, even if it’s just a few minutes here and there to look away from their screen and stretch.
4 Get creative
An office doesn’t have to be a boring cube with white walls and no character. Add some colourful touches throughout the space with live green plants – which are proven to make the environment healthier and reduce a variety of illnesses – or a few well-placed pieces of art.
5 Individuality
Lastly, AllToStartUps’ Thomas Oppong recommends embracing your employees’ unique talents and passions by allowing them to get creative with projects.
Read the original article at bit.ly/2dvsVaM
