Workplace Strategy is not a Buzzword
Workplace strategy encompasses an organisation's goals and values. It shows the world what it is you are trying to achieve and how you are uniquely trying to achieve it, and it starts with the investment in designing workspaces that boost employee engagement and productivity.
One of the most impactful ways of doing this is through a design or redesign project as it can touch every aspect of the organisation and impact employees far more than just keeping the lights and the rain out. Workplace strategy in regards to design is an opportunity for all parties to think about how the corporate vision and values can be reflected in the work environment and as a result, foster an environment that maximises employees performance.
Much like a living organism, an organisation needs to adapt, grow and change to thrive and survive-employees in stagnant, cold, dark and depressing workspaces have no motivation or drive to express creativity or be innovative (and nor should they!). Some of the biggest challenges in creating a workplace strategy require a workplace design overhaul, but it doesn’t have to be an enormous undertaking straight away. Four key factors in improving your employee’s experience will directly impact your workplace strategy in a positive way -
Encourage more collaboration and innovation
Configure desks in small clusters rather than long rows
Use common spaces more creatively by providing a variety of areas to meet, brainstorm, share meals and socialise
Get people on board with the mission
Use design to tell the story of the brand and the company
Creative graphics, indoor plants, bright and unique furniture can all help to convey the message and essence of an organisation and the people they exist to cater to before even sitting down to a presentation or board meeting
Improve staff communication and interaction
An open workplace will significantly make communication more effective. Itwon’’t work for all workplaces, and there need to be quiet spaces available for employees to retreat to for productivity and solitude, but encouraging employees to build more meaningful relationships through the eradication of walls and partitions will allow them to get to know one another and build personal relationships which flow into more unity and collaboration on shared projects
Support and encourage a mobile workforce
If we’ve learned anything over the past year it’s that working virtually, virtually works, for everyone. The use of technology solidifies workplace strategy unifying employees regardless of where they choose to work from and increases engagement, anywhere, anytime, anyplace. Including up to date(reliable!) technology in meeting rooms enables virtual collaboration that helps employees stay connected, interact, share ideas and expand projects and opportunities
It’s natural for companies to focus on the outcome of their employees to ensure their business is profitable and lucrative, however it’s the day to day experience of the employee that will bring the best customer service and ROI. If a company desires to be known for automation and speed, then the employee’s environment, benefits &experience of their workplace should be technology enabled and fast paced.
If your business wants to be known for bright and fun products, turn your attention to the experience of your employees while they are in the offices you have designed for them. If workplace strategy starts with the employee's day to day experience and is true to the brand, then the integrity of the brand & business is clear through the culture of those who know it best, and ultimately, are the face of the company.Workplace strategy starts with creating spaces, inside, that are conducive to how you aim to be perceived from the outside.