The modern workspace is all about productivity. This is something at the forefront of a business’s mind: productivity. What benefits a business more than anything is a productive workplace. So, how can a business benefit from a productive workplace, and how can it be changed?
The interior is extremely important when it comes to the productivity of a workplace. That being said, it also includes the overall functionality of the building will help with this. So, if you are a business owner who is looking for an office re-design, here is how it can benefit your employee satisfaction, productivity and overall amenities for the company.
Why is Office Design So Important For Modern Work Culture?
In the modern office, the design and overall aesthetic have changed dramatically over the last 10 to 20 years. One of the reasons for this is because of offices are becoming more eco-friendly. Additionally, offices change their design to help workplaces become more productive. Productivity is always a consideration for an office, and they will constantly look at methods to help this.
What Makes An Office Productive?
Office interiors have changed dramatically and all for the right reasons. Furniture has become more sustainable, and employees’ well-being is always considered. This considers the lighting in the room, the natural light, the airflow, the space and much more. Additionally, it considers ergonomic furniture such as chairs. Not to mention other factors, such as an ergonomic keyboard and mouse.
There have been many studies about employee satisfaction and well-being. These studies have shown that improving features in an office can impact the mood, productivity levels, and functionality of an employee. Let’s take a look at some of the features that improve the productivity of an office.
Natural Light
Natural light has been known to boost mood for a number of years now. This is one of the reasons why offices will now have large windows to help boost the mood of employees. It is also known to help with the cognitive function of an individual. Additionally, this is seen to be more sustainable because natural light reduces the usage of electricity.
Although natural light sounds fantastic to the average person, there are some issues with it. Offices with large windows tend to be much warmer, especially when there is sunlight on them. Warm environments can make it difficult for some people to work in.
Natural Elements
Natural elements are something else that is considered to help with the well-being and productivity of an employee. This includes bamboo panels and natural plant, which are believed to help with well-being. Not just that, but natural elements can help with improving the overall air quality, which will help to improve creativity.
Sound
Sound is also something that is considered in a modern office. This is because a lot of modern offices will be open plan and therefore, can generate a lot of noise. This noise can easily distract employees, so it is important that workplaces aim to reduce the amount of noise. To do this, acoustic panels will be placed around the office along with sound-absorbing materials. There will also be areas in the office which are designed to be quiet zones, ensuring that employees can go to an area where it is quiet.
Creating an Option
Something that an employee wants is an option in the workspace. For example, not every office will have breakout areas, whereas the more modern offices will. Breakout areas are essentially a space where an employee gets an opportunity to take a break. This could be just an area where they sit down for 15 minutes and relax their brain before getting back to work. Additionally, it could be an area where they go to have their lunch break or a place to relax with their employees.
In some workplaces, there will also be workspaces where employees can work in a quiet area. This can be a separate room where they can work or even a pod where the employees where separate themselves from the office.
These are simple changes that make a difference for an employee. Small factors that can instantly improve the functionality and overall performance in the workplace.
Workplace Accessibility
Workplace accessibility is something that many offices neglect. For example, a lot of offices are fitted with stairs and a lift; however, there will be stairs to another section on the floor. A spot where a wheelchair user wouldn’t be able to get past. Therefore, it doesn’t make the office accessible for everyone.
In the office itself, this also needs to be accessible, with plenty of space to be able to manoeuvre, especially those who have any physical disabilities and require a wheelchair. Plus, the tools that need to be used should also be accessible in terms of screen readers for the computers. A magnification option, along with voice control and an on-screen keyboard, can also make a workplace more accessible.
A modern lift will also be accessible. These are designed so they have a mirror on the back of the elevator, so if a wheelchair user is reversing out, they can see behind them. Plus, the lift buttons will be at a height that everybody can reach, including those who are using the lift. A lift company would carefully consider the accessibility of a lift and ensure that it is operational who use it. Additionally, they will ensure that there is no change in height between the lift and the floor, making it easy for wheelchair users and others to get in and out of the lift.
The Benefits of Workplace Accessibility
Workplace accessibility brings multiple benefits to the workplace, not to mention that it ensures you cater for everyone. Firstly, it helps to improve overall employee satisfaction because people are able to perform their jobs efficiently, without any hindrances. Furthermore, it will give a sense of belonging to the workplace, as people will feel more comfortable and accepted in this type of environment. It will also help to improve overall team morale, which will then benefit the business due to people enjoying their work.
Summary
Team morale and work productivity are essential when a business is operating. Business owners always look at ways and methods to help improve the overall performance of their workforce. At times, there will be issues in regards to morale, which is natural for a business. However, when a company ensures their workplace is accessible and they consider employee satisfaction, these are the benefits that will make their work environment more enjoyable. People will want to come to work, and they will want to perform to the best of their ability.
