IIS Space based in Dublin have written about the main essential elements to facilitate a modern, productive and happy workplace.
Nick Fitzgerald their Managing Director comments “Even though the Coronavirus pandemic will change how we operate in an office for many years to come, and possibly forever, there are many office design characteristics that should be considered in a modern office fitout. The problem is that the ideal office environment is entirely subjective. Some favour quiet and solitude, while others prefer more interaction and background noise. And in fact, these preferences change throughout the day, depending on the task at hand.
So how do you strike the perfect balance? The answer is an office space as dynamic as the needs and preferences of the occupants. This can be achieved through providing a variety of workspaces to promote collaboration, privacy and downtime.”
Collaboration
A great office fitout will support communication and collaboration, through the flow of formal and informal information. Providing socially distanced spaces where colleagues can meet informally, brainstorm and share ideas is crucial. Encouraging movement and interaction in the office will in turn encourage shared ideas and productivity.
Collaboration spaces are multi-purpose spaces, supporting individual working, teamwork, training and the exchange of knowledge and ideas.
Privacy
It may seem counter-intuitive to look for privacy in a space designed for collaboration. However, employees need the opportunity to disengage and structure their workday based on the task at hand. Creating quiet zones within the office allows employees to work without distraction when needed.
Social Spaces
One of the most important elements is that of social spaces. The idea is to provide areas where employees can recharge in order to boost productivity throughout the day. Introducing comfortable or relaxed elements help make the environment more friendly and promotes wellbeing. Think comfortable seating areas. Cafes and recreational areas with features such as ping-pong tables, pool tables etc. A popular trend we see is that of breakout spaces looking more and more like high street cafes.
And these areas aren’t just for breaks. Employees can work here with a laptop if they need quiet away from the desk. Group meetings can be held at an informal living-room type of space with sofas, armchairs, and coffee tables.
Research carried out by the Harvard Business Review, shows that ‘chance encounters’ or unplanned interactions by employees lead to improved business performance. In particular, the research identified that innovation and productivity could be increased by such encounters.
All the design elements of the modern office fitout work to bring people together to share ideas and information, promote creativity and productivity, while addressing their wellbeing-all in a socially distanced way!
To read the full article please visit IIS Space