With all the changes happening in the workforce, companies and organizations around the world must adapt if they don't want to be left behind. The new generations of workers are more demanding and know that their time and efforts are valuable.
So, if you want to attract top talent to your business and increase employee loyalty and retention, some changes must happen. And redesigning the workspace (or office) to meet the needs of the modern employee is one of them.
Here are some office space design principles that all businesses should keep in mind.
1) Safety and security come first
After two years of continued lockdowns and social distancing, people are eager to return to the same workspace, where there is no room to move around at their own desks. Furthermore, the world is currently experiencing a wave of cybercrime, with small and medium-sized companies as the main targets.
These two problems can be solved by redesigning the office space. First, it helps create a more homely atmosphere so employees can feel safe and comfortable while working. This could involve small projects like repurposing conference rooms or creating a space where people can meet and talk if they want. It also helps to incorporate multimedia technology so that hybrid teams can meet and discuss in different areas of the office.
When it comes to security, you should start with physical resources first. For example, it helps to increase the security level of the server room (if any) by reinforcing doors and protecting windows. Additionally, limit room access so that only essential employees have access to your company's core data.
2) Think about hiring an office designer
Although many small businesses may find that the budget is a bit tight, it is a smart investment to work with an expert in office design development. This is because they have the right level of knowledge and resources to help you create a warm and inviting office space that employees want to return to.
Although the majority of Americans do not work from home, among those who do, a large percentage have difficulty returning to the office full time. This is because they feel free and more comfortable working from home. So if you can create a better equipped and more challenging office space.
3) Think outside the box
The way we work is changing and office spaces must reflect exactly that. For example, although open spaces are still trendy, that doesn't mean people like cubicles or in-person desks where you're forced to be close to your colleagues.
Modern office spaces utilize unique floor plans that meet the needs of your employees.
Of course, the focus will remain on social distancing and flexible working hours, but there are other factors worth considering, such as:
- Dedicated kitchen spaces with diverse healthy eating options to reduce unnecessary trips abroad or contact with delivery people.
- Well-designed cleaning and densification protocols.
- More focus on audio and video communication devices.
- Touchless technology that helps employees reduce contact with various surfaces.
- Devices and machines controlled by smartphones.
- Use furniture to create small collaboration islands where team members (remote and present) can meet and chat.
Wrap up
In short, modern technology and smart furniture and appliances are a big part of new office space design. And while the investment may be a little high at first, it will create the kind of work environment that keeps people motivated and highly productive. Additionally, as people become more comfortable in the new environment, companies will see an increase in long-term employee retention and loyalty.