With the average worker spending nearly 16 per cent of their life at work, Paul Finch explains how to create the perfect office environment
The spaces in which we work can have a direct impact on productivity and creativity. Design and layout of office space should be an essential consideration for employers looking to create a stimulating work environment. But how do you create a workspace that is functional, flexible and also inspires creativity and productivity?
Recognising the need for improvement is the first step. The next is agreeing the scope of the project: do you want to opt for a whole new premise, or simply retrofit your existing space? Either way, it is important to assign responsibilities internally and ensure a member of the management team is leading on the project to aid with necessary approvals. Once the team is in place, outline the objectives.
Engaging with your workforce is key. This can be done by running an internal workshop to offer workers the opportunity to provide crucial input on what currently works and what doesn?t. Doing this demonstrates your intent to improve your employees? surroundings and that you place a high level of importance on their comfort.
Any properly run project should also take into account the type of work the team undertakes. Do they require an office environment better suited to individual work or is a collaborative set-up more appropriate? Small improvements can have a big impact on both efficiency and morale.
We forget that many aspects of our work environment are within our power to change, so don?t be afraid to consider structural alterations or layout modifications. An inspiring workspace is more than interior design; it?s a reflection of your company and its culture, so think about creating a breakout area where employees can come together.
Inject some colour, by all means. Take into account your brand colours and how they can be incorporated in a wider context than just decoration and furnishings, such as lighting and office stationery for instance. Use furnishings, plants and pictures to bring the space to life and encourage staff to personalise their desks and surrounding areas to help people feel engaged with their surroundings.
Once planning, design and facilities have been addressed you can rest assured that your business will be delivering a stimulating working environment, but don?t rest on your laurels ? look for ways to continually improve your surroundings.
Offices often become uninspiring because they have been outgrown or no longer serve the specific purpose for which they were originally conceived. It?s important, therefore, to regularly review your workspace, the use of the room available and the level of technology required to keep the office productive and meet the changing needs of the people who use them.
Paul Finch is the joint founder and CEO of Orega, a specialist provider of serviced office space. For more information, visit orega.com
