The office environment is forever evolving. Some trends are fleeting, and some are here to stay. One size does not fit all, and here is why…. Four generations are co-existing in the workplace and the size of a typical office environment is shrinking.
Generation X and the Boomers are in charge and value different things then the Millennials and Silent Generation that flank them. And before long Generation Z will be on the scene! Work ethics and what is deemed important vary between these generations, but the biggest factor that divides the workplace is culture. Going to work today is more than just collecting a paycheck. Working for a company that shares your values and evokes a company culture you can be proud of is highly coveted.
So, it is no surprise that designing office space to accommodate all these nuances is not an easy task, but here are some touch points that are widely understood and sought after, regardless of the location or population that occupies it.
Activity Based Work = Agile Work
1. Biophilic Design: Bringing nature into our environment helps us on many levels. It lowers our blood pressure and increases our attention span and productivity. From subliminal methods (piping in nature sounds & using natural textures) to the more apparent (lots of natural light, murals, green walls and planters, water features & wood grain flooring) — everyone can agree, it makes a difference!
2. Acoustical Solutions: With the trend of open offices still being strong, sound deadening properties are required to help reduce distractions and sound bounce. From felt panels to fabric wrapped foam solutions, effecting change is easy and affordable with artful and attractive solutions that can incorporate your companies’ image, culture, values and history.
3. Privacy: The micro-office has limited the use of offices; permanent workstations are not a “given” anymore and holding private meetings are difficult. Pods, booths, nooks or ventilated free standing rooms are the rage! What happens in the mobile environment cannot be heard outside of its walls and electronics have plug and play capabilities. A comfortable, cost efficient way to add moveable and reusable collaborative areas without the cost of construction.
Remote or mobile employees are growing in number. According to Gallup, 43 percent of Americans spent at least some time working remotely in 2017, compared to 39% in 2012. This tells us that the size of the standard office will continue to shrink because employees can be productive working in alternative environments.
TeamPAR believes….
- Retention (and recruitment) of employees will require flexibility on the employer’s part to attract talent.
- Activity-based work environments will become a requirement to maximize employees’ productivity — millennials (50% of the current workforce) prefer neighborhood or community style flexibility over the old-school “cubicles.”
PARsolutions is the perfect partner to help you maximize your office environment potential. Let us help you find your ideal ratio….
collaboration spaces + heads-down workstations + natural light + a centrally located café = SUCCESS
TeamPAR is ready to help you develop your company culture and attract and retain talent. You don’t need to increase your footprint — just adapt to the new norm!