Seldom consciously designed, usually very traditional.
Every organization has its own work environment. Rarely is it designed with intent; more often, it follows traditional patterns. But why should you change your office layout, and what exactly are “dynamic offices”? Read on to uncover the essence of dynamic workplaces and learn how to align your office with your activities.
Open-plan offices
If you’ve seen the opening of The Matrix, you might recall Mr. Anderson’s workplace: a massive open-plan office filled with 200 identical cubicles. A checkerboard of tiny boxes where employees remain anonymous.
But is a large open-plan office truly the most efficient setup for your company? How can you foster collaboration among employees without creating chaos?
Customized offices
In many companies, the traditional work environment is still the default “solution” for all activities: a desk, door, table, and chair. Add a plant, a picture frame, and a cup of pens. It’s what we’re used to.
What if we took a closer look at our activities and tailored the office setup to match them? The possibilities are immense. Here are some examples:
- Managers often spend their days in meetings and prefer working quietly from home. Do they really need a private office, or could they simply find a spot among their team when responding to emails?
- Creative teams thrive in specialized project spaces designed to enhance interaction. Why not provide a room with a smartboard where they can brainstorm freely?
- Sales teams are usually out on the road. Why not assign them a limited number of flexible workspaces where they can log in when needed? They can share information in a cozy coffee corner.
More comfort, better performance
Whether you call it activity-based working, dynamic offices, or flexible working, the goal is always the same: to provide users with more options and improve workplace comfort. This leads to better performance, higher efficiency, greater flexibility, and lower costs. Ultimately, it also enhances your employer branding, helping to attract new talent.
Communicating change
To meet the needs of a modern business, the first step is to develop an appropriate concept. This concept should align with your organization’s objectives and values, requiring a thorough psychological analysis of your company.
Next comes implementation. This demands a well-thought-out change management process that fits seamlessly with your company culture. With a strategic change plan, we can shape perceptions, inform employees, and boost their motivation. Here too, communication is the key to success!
