What is the importance of office space planning?
The working landscape has changed somewhat over the years and in particular over the last couple of years since the global Covid 2019 pandemic. Some might suggest the role of an office is obsolete but in many cases, we would certainly disagree. What we do agree on though, is that with remote working, flexible schedules and digital collaboration becoming staples in lots of organisations, the way in which the office space is used can play a massive role in its effectiveness.
This blog explores why office space planning is vital in today’s world and how it can impact productivity and well-being. We are JST Construction and office planning is one of our specialist areas.
If you’d like to know more about how we can help you on your next office project, please get in touch at 0151 355 9232.
Key points covered in regards to the importance of space planning will include;-
- Encouraging Collaboration and Creativity
- Enhancing Productivity
- Attracting and Retaining Talent
- Prioritise Employee Well-Being
- Being Efficient With Your Space
- Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Encouraging Collaboration and Creativity
In our opinion, you need to be creating office spaces these days that encourage collaboration and creativity. Not only is this an incentive to actually work there but it can reap rewards in terms of team cohesion and output too. A well-designed office can create spaces for impromptu meetings, brainstorming sessions, and casual conversations, thus promoting the exchange of ideas and fostering a culture of innovation.
Lots of the leading companies in the world invest lots of money and resources into creating innovative office spaces. This includes things like lounges, breakout rooms, meeting areas, gyms and so much more. As a result, more of the workforce choose to work in the office.
Enhancing Productivity
Regardless of how often you’re in the office, it’s important to make the most of it when you actually are. We would argue that efficiency and productivity can be improved with an office space that is planned. For example, you can improve workflow and communication with open plan offices or reduce distraction with breakout rooms for people who want a bit of silent concentration time. Simply by giving access to features and spaces like these in your office can provide results in terms of output too.
Thinking about it from a more interior design perspective as well, having ergonomic furniture such as adjustable desks and comfy chairs can also enhance productivity levels, lessen the risk of injury and make people feel more relaxed.
Attracting & Retaining Talent
The fight for attracting the top talent can be rough, especially in specialist fields so it’s important to offer something different or stand out. A unique and well planned office space can be this differentiating factor that might entice someone to choose you to work for, over a competitor.
Having an office that employees look forward to visiting shouldn’t be underestimated because it can have a major impact on performance, output and productivity.
Prioritise Employee Well-Being
More businesses are putting employee wellbeing at the forefront of their priorities, and rightly so. Having a good office can be a great opportunity to improve your health and wellbeing, should you utilise the space effectively. Many studies have shown a direct link between the physical work environment and employee health and happiness. A poorly planned office with inadequate lighting, uncomfortable seating, or poor air quality can lead to stress, fatigue, and decreased job satisfaction.
On the other hand, if you have a new, fresh, modern feeling space designed with wellness spaces, a gym, a healthy kitchen area and more, it can have a profound effect on your teams. We have a large portfolio of innovative spaces to show should you wish to see them.
Being Efficient With Your Space
The art of being efficient with the space you actually have is important too. If you have bulky pieces of furniture, or a wall in a certain place that could be removed, it may be time to look at the overall structure and layout of your office.
We have helped countless companies to redesign their office space to allow for more desks, more people, more machinery and lots of other things that have helped them get more use and productivity out of their office. If you’re unsure about what you could do with your space, give our team a call because we’d be happy to give you a FREE audit.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Updating your office could make a difference from a sustainability and environmental standpoint. Sustainable office designs can reduce energy consumption, waste generation, and carbon footprints. These initiatives not only contribute to a greener planet but also demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility, which can be attractive to employees and customers alike.
Examples of office space planking in this way could be things like energy efficient lighting, use of eco-friendly materials, insulating equipment so there’s less need for heating, quality windows and more. All of this contributes to brand image and impressions of others. A professional and well thought out office space could essentially win you work and talent which is priceless.
Contact JST Construction
Office space planning impacts various aspects of business, including productivity, employee well-being, talent acquisition and retention, adaptability, sustainability, brand image and so much more. As the world of work continues to evolve, investing in thoughtful office space planning remains a wise and strategic decision for any organisation. We would love to chat to you further if you’re considering adapting your office space. We are specialists in this area and have worked on a variety of project types for offices in different sectors. Call us today on 0151 355 9232, email us at office@jstconstruction.co.uk or use the contact form