Workspace design has fast become a prominent focus of many businesses, across a variety of industries. Increasingly, we are understanding that the modern workforce wants their workspace to look and function a certain way, and that the design of our working environment can have an impact far beyond appearance.
According to the Condeco Workplace Report, several factors influence the design of a workplace, but Condeco found that two factors in particular are most prominent: the sector within which the business is located, and the growth rate of the business.
A business or organisation might face certain expectations when it comes to workplace design, in relation to the trends or customs within their sector.
Sector
It has always been expected that businesses within the creative industries reflect their output in the design of their environment, or that more traditional businesses remain classic and conventional in their style. To add to these expectations, there is increasing pressure to ensure that not only is a workspace design appealing to clients, but also to current and prospective employees.
“Office design has become one of the key points of the talent agenda, and if employers can offer a great office environment, then it could play a part in potential candiates selecting their business” Professor Jeremy Myerson, Office design expert, Worktech Academy, speaking on “Making it Big in London” episode of London Live.
There is also the notion that varying designs can help improve creative output, or help to increase productivity levels amongst the workforce.
We continue to see the popularity of break out and social spaces in workspace design; these type of spaces originated in the creative sectors, but recently have been adopted by more traditional organisations.
“Design creates culture. Culture shapes values. Values determine the future.” – Robert L Peters, graphic designer and educator
Growth
Growth is a significant influencing factor upon workspace design, for obvious reasons. A business that grows at a rapid pace often finds itself needing to extend or move to larger spaces.
Overall, the growth of a business often results in a re-design of the working environment, business leaders should be aware of ways that they can encourage change and progress, while also remaining cautious about the future.
Implementing flexible working schemes such as hot desking can allow organisations to make the most of their workspace, and allow room for adapting to unknown futures.
