Can the design of your office result in higher work productivity?
Published: 25/09/2017
By Carly Chandra, Business Development Manager at Saracen Interiors
It is the aim of any business to have an efficient environment where workers can enhance their productivity by working comfortably. This will in turn mean a healthy return on investment. In this era of technological innovation, automated information processing has touched nearly all industries. Cloud computing means that employees nowadays can access information easily through the click of a button, as opposed to when companies relied on giant computers to store information.
This wireless access to information means employees have the freedom to collaborate effectively without necessary being bogged down to a specific office space. This has in turn forced companies to rethink the design of their offices, with even more companies abandoning the conventional cubicles in favour of evolutionary office designs to boost productivity and creative thinking. Therefore, when looking for a company to do your office fit out, make sure they share the ideology behind your business.
In an era of cutthroat business competition, businesses are not only aiming to stay competitive, but they also want to retain their top talent. This means that businesses must come up with ways in which they can tap in the creative talent of their employees. Businesses therefore find it important to consider the needs of their employees when coming up with office designs. While this will most likely depend on the type of business, most office spaces will require work stations and tables that are designed to enhance how employees go about their duties without straining. This may mean businesses doing research and implementing ergonomic research to ensure the well-being of their employees. Most employees are under extra pressure to perform, especially given the tough economic times that do not guarantee job security. Thus, businesses are under pressure to come up with effective designs that also guarantee the physical well-being of their employees.
Research over the years has shown that office design has a profound sociological and inspirational effect on employees. Poor working conditions such as a poorly lit office space will have a negative effect on the morale of employees, which will translate in a decline in productivity. By having poor working conditions, employees may feel that you are not investing in them, and therefore it will be hard for them to respond when you demand for increased productivity.
On the other hand, a well thought out and designed office space will make employees feel appreciated, and they will most likely return the favour through enhanced productivity. In addition, if your office space also includes customers or potential employees coming for an interview, you will want to send the right message. It is important to make a lasting first impression for those visiting your office, because you may never know their value when it comes to growing your business.
Since the office is where employees accomplish their goals, build relationships and share ideas, the company you choose to do your office fit out should be able to ensure this is accomplished. This may range from the colours they choose to the furniture, and other supplies, which will ensure your employees are comfortable. While it is important to create a highly innovative office workspace, you also need to consider things such as what the employees think and the budget you have. By getting their feedback and getting them involved, you will most likely achieve more because they will feel part of the process.
In conclusion, how professional your office design is will have a huge impact on the productivity of your employees. For an enhanced productive office environment, you will need your office design to motivate your employees, promote their physical well-being and also be supportive of their psychological needs. This will mean that your employees will be inspired to come to work each morning and give their best. Thus, when searching for an office fit out company, you should make them understand your business, what its goals are and its employees. This is to make sure the design they come up with mirrors the goals of your business.