3 Ways to Build the Workspace of the Future

Creating the workplace of the future is not simply about constructing a new office. You need to create programs that prepare and manage the space. But it’s also important to manage the work experience itself to deliver ongoing efficiency and wellness.

According to JLL’s paper, The future of work and workplace, companies need to “curate” the workplace. Meanwhile, they must set the social agenda to create networking opportunities and embrace collaboration.

Tomorrow’s workplace is a vision of innovative networked spaces and technologies. It’s a space where your people can come together to interact and collaborate. It brings together not just colleagues, but also entrepreneurs and employees from other organizations.

How can you ensure that your organization is equipped for a successful transition toward the workplace of the future?

1) Gear up for change

When establishing a new workplace, you can’t just drive straight into building the future. Let’s face it – employees tend to shy away from big changes, especially all at once!

Instead, prepare your people by introducing new technologies and space types little by little. This ensures these behaviors are embedded and changes are manageable and easier to handle.

2) A workspace equipped for constant feedback

When it comes to establishing a new workplace, it’s no longer a case of “set and forget.” To be fully harnessed, innovation zones need to be fostered, trialed and modified.

New buildings and spaces will make it easier to do this. The future promises a workspace equipped for constant monitoring and real-time feedback. But the best data you can use when making changes is your own observations and internal feedback.

We recommend using data to modify, reorganize and fine-tune the space. This ensures that the workspace aligns to the behavioral profile of your people and supports the way they work.

3) Wellness at the top of mind

The concept of “wellness” is growing in importance, with academics linking contented workplaces with higher productivity. Researchers in the United Kingdom found that happiness can increase workforce productivity by more than 10 percent. While several factors contribute to workplace happiness, a pleasant and highly functioning office environment is an important one.

Just as the physical space, the user experience should be constantly monitored and adjusted. Wellness is a large part of enhancing the workplace experience. Many organizations (such as Fitbit, Google, and Draper, Inc) launched wellness programs in a drive to boost employee happiness and productivity, and reduce absenteeism and long-term healthcare costs.

Programs run the gamut. They include conducting nutrition workshops, providing bike and shower facilities for employees, hosting yoga or tai chi sessions for relaxation, or offering flu vaccinations. Some even allow employees days off to volunteer for their charity of choice.

The challenge up ahead

As technology continues to evolve over time, there are and will be many dramatic changes that will impact our work. You need to stay nimble to thrive, be ahead of the curve, and always look out for disruptions. Embrace an all-encompassing vision for the workplace. Strive toward curating a space that creates a dynamic workplace.

Tomorrow’s workplace is more than just space—it’s about the work experience for your employees.

Learn more about building a better experience for your employees. Read on!

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