Flexible working hours, adaptable workspaces and hybrid meetings are all part of the NWOW, or New Way Of Working. But what are the three main elements to focus on, to ensure your workplace is up to the mark?
But how do the changes we have witnessed among employees impact the design of an office and its purpose? Here are four main areas that play a big part in creating the office of the future.
1. Flex..
Maximum flexibility is one of the key elements that employees expect to see in their workplace these days. But this means that the number of employees present at the office at one time can fluctuate substantially each day. Fixed desks need to be replaced by flexible workstations, and multifunctional meeting rooms will become a standard in any organisation.
2. …And Tech
To ensure flexibility, the use of new and efficient technologies is crucial. Digital tools play a key role when it comes to connecting team members working from different locations; data accessibility, efficiency and safety are at the forefront.
3. It’s all activity-based
The new workplace reality is often discussed in conjunction with activity-based working. Offices built around employees and their choice of setting for any one task is at the forefront of any activity-based workplace – a space created to provide an ideal mix of quiet areas, meeting spaces, soft seating, phone booths and so on.
4. The power of office design
The design and layout of an office is the driving force behind the New Way of Working. The workplace itself is now driving inspiration, productivity, team building and loyalty. So, anyone should take their time when rethinking their office or renovating their existing one. In the last eighteen months it’s become clear to all how important our physical environment is. Moreover, with working patterns becoming more and more flexible, employees should be given an extra reason to choose the office over their own home. Creating the right office environment has never been more important.