The average American spends almost 2,000 hours working each year. You may spend some of this time in a cubicle or in a corner office with a view. Or, you might be working in an ever-changing workspace that extends far beyond those borders.
The workplace is evolving and so are the needs and wants of modern workers. You must adapt to these changes in order to attract and keep the best talent.
New Definitions of Office Life
Traditional definitions of office life include the experiences and situations of an office. However, the notion of an “office” has become less relevant with the introduction of technology to our daily lives.
The traditional systems of how, when, and where employees work have been dissolved by technology. Many can complete their tasks if they find a spot with good WiFi signals.
Technology has made our lives more convenient in many ways, but it has also made it difficult to disconnect from our professional and personal lives.
Smartphones have made email and other communication tools for employees easy to access. However, these invasive patterns can reduce time with loved ones, friends, and family. This has made it so that employees are expected to be available beyond their traditional work hours.
Technology can also interrupt work hours. Employees are increasingly distracted by text messages, social media and other notifications.
The new office lifestyle incorporates personal and professional affairs. There are boundaries and expectations that will allow employees to be happy and help them succeed.
Rethinking the Parameters of Office Life
The evolving “resimercial design” speaks to the idea that workspaces today are more integrated and can be used to balance our personal and professional lives. Resimerical is a mix of “residential”, “commercial” and brings in furniture products with a homelike feeling to them.
These spaces are a great way to increase employee satisfaction and create an environment that encourages creativity.
This new definition of office life is about letting go the notion that we work only in one place. This new definition of office life includes new ways to think about different types of work and work styles that suit individual preferences or circumstances. The new office lifestyle is more flexible than rigid work patterns.
Flexible working environments offer employees more options than ever. But are businesses catering?
When designing for the new office environment, it is important to keep an open mind and think about how you can create a happy, productive workplace.
When designing your new office life, there are some things to consider
- What layouts and styles are most effective for your employees and company culture
- Is it logical to have open-plan, private, and/or coworking spaces?
- Is your office a mix of design and functionality?
- Are you able to provide space for employees to meet and collaborate?
- Do you allow employees to have private areas if you have an open floorplan?
Employees want and require a designated workspace that is structured but flexible. The workplace should be a place where employees can gather and disperse to work independently.
Consider the layout and location of your workplace, as well as the flexibility it offers, to ensure the best possible results. These factors create a positive work environment. Employees should have the opportunity to access a range of settings depending on their job and preferred work style.
Why is it important?
For the best workplace environment, it is important to consider the health and well-being of employees.
A well-designed office can help employees feel more creative, productive, and satisfied. This allows you to retain top talent while also allowing you to grow your company or organization.
