The workplace environment dictates many workplace design decisions. These include things like lighting, temperature, noise levels, and how comfortable it is in there. But workplace design also consists of the layout of the office space itself – where desks are located concerning one another, what kind of furniture is used, what colors are on the walls, and so much more. The way that an office space looks can have a significant impact on productivity and morale among employees.
1) Why is design important in the workplace?
The workplace environment and workplace design can be a powerful combination. Employees who like their work environment often feel more engaged, which leads to higher levels of productivity. Similarly, companies that invest in workplace design – such as office furniture or creating an open floor plan – are likely to see this investment pay off by increasing employee morale and engagement with the company mission. This is because happy employees tend to get along better and perform at a higher level than unhappy ones do!
-office layout should support collaboration among team members
-employees need good lighting for comfort and concentration
-feng shui principles suggest specific colors based on directionality (west=red/orange, east=white/blue, etc.
2) How do employees feel about workplace changes?
People are relieved when they understand why the change is happening. But if you don’t tell them, it can cause stress because they will imagine all sorts of reasons for the shift in their environment – none of which may be accurate.
3) What types of design are there?
There are many types of workplace design, but they fall into two main categories: formal and informal workplaces.
Formal workplace is generally more common in large corporations with rigid hierarchies. There’s no ambiguity regarding who reports to whom or where people sit relative to their bosses. All information can be found on the org chart/floor plan. The seating arrangement doesn’t create a relaxed atmosphere; employees feel like they must always act professionally, whether they’re working alone or with others (which may lead them not to talk about personal matters).
Informal workplace designs encourage more teamwork among workers because everyone has an equal status regardless of job title or organizational level within the company hierarchy.
4) What would be an example of this?
For example, workplace design can be as simple as a corkboard and pushpins to display up-to-date information. It could include whiteboards and markers to brainstorm ideas (and then wipe them away) or incorporate more high-end technology such as an electronic presentation system or interactive screens that employees use for collaboration or training purposes.
Office designs like the one described here are called ‘third place’ workplace designs because they help people feel less like they’re at work and more like they’re in their home space – except with better coffee!
Once you make the decision, neither you nor your employees will regret it.
