The Changing Workspace

Until recently, many workspaces contained fluorescent-lit hallways of cubicles. However, technology has shepherded in several opportunities for substantial office redesign, changing where we do business. No longer tethered to a phone line or desk, many employees now work in flexible offices designed to support different working modes: concentration space, cell phone space, team meeting space, relaxation space, and collaboration space. Emails, conference calls, ergonomic insights, digital communication and online research have eradicated the needs for many traditional office designs.

I personally find the redesigned spaces appealing as they allow me to work in a space best suited for my work style on any given day. Cognitive research has shown the clear ties between environment and behavior. In a project for one of my doctoral classes, I remember performing a small experiment to test out these theories by rearranging toy boxes in my apartment to see if my toddler would play with toys placed at a more comfortable height. He did, confirming in my mind the powerful effect of environment on behavior. It is worth exploring this new trend in office workspace designs, undoubtably inspired by Google and Starbucks. In this blog, I will be covering some of the key changes technology has made when it comes to workplace design.

Conference Video Technology

A vast majority of in-person meetings have been replaced or supplemented with high-speed video conference technology. This addition has led to the transformation of many conference rooms and laptop software programs, which now are equipped with technology that allows the real-time virtual experience to be a viable option for all.

Recruiting and Retaining the Largest Generation in Workforce

As baby boomers retire and millennials, expected to comprise 75% of the workforce by 2025, begin to take over leadership roles in the workforce, offices are adapting. This group is very technologically savvy and often prefers an environment of engagement and collaboration with their devices. As such, office designs are beginning to incorporate open layouts and lower dividing walls to nurture spaces for engagement and innovation.

Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

Smartphones, laptops, and tablets have the ability to connect workers with their colleagues anywhere they are–which creates enormous amounts of flexibility for employees. As a result, employers are creating flexible communal work areas where employees have the option to either have a brainstorming session or do independent work–all while being connected to the network. This flexible environment often takes the form of a cool lounge atmosphere that encourages creativity.

Telecommuting

Since the emergence of technology, telecommuting is now a sensible option for many employers. Because of fewer on-site staff, workplace designs are now open to the possibilities of desk sharing or free desking (which essentially means there are unassigned workstations that support individual work when a remote employee is on-site).

Technology is not only changing how we work, but where we work as well. Recent studies report increases in employee productivity and engagement when working in an ‘agile workplace.’ Designing the workspace to fit the needs of employees could just be the ticket to making your business competitive in this brave new world.