Productivity and efficiency are of the utmost importance in an office setting. Many factors can influence a team’s productivity within the office, some of which may be more easily recognizable than others. One such factor that can go unnoticed is the design and layout of the office space itself. Environment can have a very strong impact on one’s mental and emotional well-being. A poorly designed office setting, for instance, can severely hinder the overall productivity, efficiency, and motivation of employees. Therefore, the space must be designed with such elements in mind. This guide explores several tips for creating a productive office space and how doing so can lead to greater successes for the future of your company.
Allow for freedom and flexibility
Structure may seem like the best means to create an efficient workplace, but in many cases, freedom and flexibility breed far greater productivity. An overly structured office setting can feel harsh and slightly oppressive at times, causing employees to feel uncomfortable in their work space. When uncomfortable, employees will often not work as consistently nor will they be able to maintain focus on their work. Structuring your office in a manner that allows for freedom and flexibility gives your employees the ability to take work into their own hands. They can find a space and position that is comfortable for them and is conducive to their individual work processes.
Open floor plans are a common design to utilize when seeking a more flexible work space. Flex office spaces have also become increasingly common in recent years. This type of office space is particularly popular among companies that operate mainly in the digital sphere. Flex office spaces allow employees the freedom to work in a slightly more structured setting without the domineering and restrictive nature of individual desks and cubicles. For more information on flex office spaces, contact our team at Demetree Real Estate Services.
Incorporate technology
Technology has become an integral part of life in recent years, so much so that it’s now almost impossible to get through a day without using some form of technology. As such, it stands to reason that one of the best tips for creating a productive office space is to incorporate various types of technology throughout. Switching out your company’s computers for more recent models may seem like a small change, but it can make a big difference in the long run. Newer models often operate at a faster speed and can accommodate a larger amount of data. As a result, all operations that utilize a computer will be much faster and more efficient, thereby leading to more productive operations overall.
Build a functional floor plan
The needs and uses for a given office space will vary depending on the type of internal operations that take place every day. Some offices will function more smoothly with separated cubes and offices, while others may benefit from an abundance of collaborative spaces and an open floor plan. Try to organize your office space in a manner that will be most functional for your company’s specific needs. Take into consideration the frequency with which various teams collaborate as well as the amount of personal space needed for each team member when assessing the space’s functionality.