As a result of the evidence building around workplace productivity, healthier workplace environments, changing work styles and demographics; and the increasing the cost of real estate, workplace design must take a longer view. A breadth of research is providing objective analysis on which to base design decisions. These dynamic conditions are opportunities for progressive employers to differentiate themselves, creating optimal conditions for hiring top talent and employee retention.
DISTINCTIVE THINKING: How to achieve the long view with a new workspace design
Choose a design partner who has expertise in change management
Strategically engage the whole team in the process
Select a design partner that can provide a start-to-finish solution.
The process should start with information gathering and analysis: everything from current workplace environment, operational efficiencies, overarching corporate goals for the future, marketplace competitors, and brand.
Design with flexibility in mind so workplace can easily evolve to changing needs
Leverage sustainability benchmarking to ensure a healthy work environment
Workplace change is a profound adjustment for employees. Companies need a designer who is versed in change management strategies. For a transition to be successful, a top down process will not work. Your designer should work collaboratively with your team and incorporate strategies such as visioning sessions and peer engagement to minimize employee stress and resistance.Your design partner will ideally work with you through all project phases from programming and design through procurement, construction administration, and post occupancy analysis. During the construction phase, a full service design firm works as your advocate, reviewing work on site, proactively managing changes and vetting Contractors’ progress draws. All of this ensures a well-coordinated design and construction process, resulting in a successful workspace project.
Office of the Future – A Centre of Excellence for RATIO
Over the last several years at RATIO, we have focused our attention on the changing workplace and how we can help our clients plan spaces that will adapt to future needs. It is anticipated that over the next decade we will see an unprecedented change in the way we work as a result of many factors including larger socio-economic shifts, changing age demographics, rising real estate costs and the need to build a more sustainable future. We work with our clients to ensure that their workspaces are healthy, productive and inspiring; and will be easily adaptable to changing needs.
See our workspace projects:
Salmon Arm savings & Credit Union, Uptown
Pacific Coast University for Workplace Health Sciences
Related News posts:
Workspace design: how to enhance productivity & stimulate creativity
Workspace design can impact creativity and innovation
External resources on workplace design:
https://www.reminetwork.com/articles/demographic-shift-demands-change-management/
http://www.steelcase.com/insights/360-latest-news/
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