Companies can be as varied as the people working for them, meaning that there’s truly no “one-size-fits-all” solution when it comes to designing the ideal office space. However, that’s not to say that some workplace designs aren’t better than others. This doesn’t only pertain to the aesthetic appeal of the work environment, but also its efficiency in terms of supporting employee productivity and innovation. Interior design can have a powerful effect on your teams, so here are some of the most effective strategies you should consider when enhancing the space planning process in your own office:
Make customization a priority
Every company is different, and each team within a company can differ as well. They all function in unique ways, which means that customization will have to be a priority when space planning. For instance, some of your teams may require quiet time throughout the workday, making cubicles or closed-off workspaces essential. Others will need the freedom of communicating constantly for better team outcomes, and may work more efficiently in an open-plan space. Consider all variables that affect your staff and plan the office space accordingly – you might need to combine several aspects as well.
Watch your team’s dynamics
The best way to find a layout and design solution that suits your teams is to observe their dynamics. Consider how each team utilizes the currently available space, which complaints they have regarding their workspaces, whether there are any traffic flow bottlenecks and collaboration obstacles, what works in the present design, and what doesn’t. Include your teams in this process and ask them how they’d like their office space to look. They are the ones who will be working in it, and their insights can be invaluable, not to mention that taking employee suggestions can also lead to a boost in productivity and morale.
Rethink space allocation
While space used to be allocated according to titles in the past, modern offices are quickly changing. Nowadays, space is given based on actual necessity and how much time is generally spent in the office. This does make logistical sense, but it also makes space allocation a difficult process. That is why working with an expert commercial defit service may be beneficial. The right experts will be able to strip out your current space and set a good foundation for the following fitout, performing the necessary construction work and helping you plan your space perfectly.
Include crucial technologies
Your space planning efforts can also be shaped by the crucial technologies your staff uses every day. For example, wired solutions could offer higher speeds but they are quite restrictive, while wireless options may provide more freedom even though their reliability could present an issue. Technologies that are more specific to your industry or company could impact office design as well, so keep them in mind when space planning. You may need to make some compromises in order to find the most suitable solutions.
Focus on good collaboration
Collaboration is a vital aspect in most workplaces and might deserve the top spot on your “must-have” list as well. Conventional offices filled with dividers, walls, and doors could significantly hinder communication, while larger and more open spaces may help to support cooperation. This can be a great contributor to organizational success, but many workplaces might still require some privacy and peace. In those instances, choosing alternative solutions such as glass partitions can help you strike the perfect balance between collaboration and privacy.
Consider your company culture
Your business likely has a distinct company culture, which makes it unique and differentiates it from other workplaces. The most efficient office design solutions will acknowledge and honor these differences, thus giving your company more personality and enabling you to attract and retain the best talent. Reinforcing your culture throughout the office space can also aid in increasing team spirit and employee happiness. So, aim to identify important company culture elements, such as your brand, personality, or core values, and design your office accordingly.
The perfect office space represents something different for each company. Consider your needs, work styles, and overall goals when planning your office space to design the most suitable solution for your business and ensure success.