Activity based work zone creation
Smart technology enables activity-based working, where employees choose their work environments based on the task at hand. This promotes flexibility and creativity. Activity-Based Working (ABW) is a flexible office design approach where different zones are created for specific types of work activities. Instead of assigning employees a single desk, ABW gives them access to a variety of workspaces that support different tasks, such as quiet zones for focused work, collaborative areas for teamwork, and social spaces for informal interactions. This setup allows employees to choose the environment that best fits the task at hand, helping to improve productivity and overall employee satisfaction.
These zones are quiet areas or private spaces designed for tasks that require high concentration, like data analysis, report writing, or creative work. By having a dedicated place free from distractions, employees can focus more deeply on their tasks, reducing interruptions and completing work more efficiently. This is especially beneficial for introverts or those who need undisturbed environments for critical thinking.
Collaboration and team zones
Office space design that includes collaboration zones are open areas or meeting rooms that allow teams to work together on projects, brainstorm, and hold discussions in a dedicated and private zone. Dedicated spaces for teamwork promotes communication and idea sharing. When employees have a designated spot for collaborating, they’re more likely to work together effectively without disrupting others who are focused on individual tasks.
Touchdown spaces
Small, unassigned desks or counters where employees can quickly check emails or perform short tasks. They’re ideal for employees who are frequently on the move or need a quick, temporary workspace. These spaces should have charging stations and access to high quality internet access. Touchdown spaces save time and provide flexibility, as employees don’t have to go back to their main workspace for brief tasks. This setup is especially useful for field-based staff or those attending meetings throughout the day and need a space close by that they can perform daily tasks with all the facilities they need.
Social zones
Social zones in your office space are informal areas like lounges or kitchen spaces where employees can relax, socialize, or hold casual meetings. Social spaces in the office which are designed and styled with residential comforts (resimercial design) offer a break from the formal work environment, which can reduce stress and increase job satisfaction. Informal interactions in these zones also help build stronger team relationships, which can enhance collaboration and creativity.
Learning and resource areas
Learning and resource areas are equipped with resources like books, technical equipment, or training materials where employees can go for knowledge-building or skill development can increase productivity and engagement with simple office space design usage. By having a space dedicated to learning, employees are encouraged to continuously develop their skills, boosting their job performance and satisfaction. It also signals that the company values growth and learning.
Gallery
Meeting pods or phone booths
These private zones in your office space design are small, private rooms designed for taking calls or holding small meetings. They’re especially useful in open-plan offices to avoid disrupting others. Meeting pods allow employees to make calls or discuss confidential matters without noise or interruptions from the greater office space, which supports productivity and professionalism and are often as small as 2 man pods designed for privacy in an open plan office situation.
Innovation or Creative Zones
These are dynamic spaces often equipped with smart whiteboards, flexible seating, and inspiring décor, designed for brainstorming and problem-solving. By providing a stimulating space for creative thinking, designated innovation zones in your office space can spark new ideas and encourage employees to think outside the box.
How ABW Improves Productivity
When employees can choose spaces that match their current tasks, they experience fewer distractions. For example, those working on deep-focus tasks can use quiet zones, while collaborative work happens in designated areas, helping everyone be more productive. ABW empowers employees to choose where they work based on their needs, which can boost motivation and job satisfaction. When employees feel they have control over their environment, they’re more likely to engage with their work and perform at a higher level. With dedicated spaces for teamwork and brainstorming, teams can work together more effectively. These office spaces encourage open communication and creative problem-solving, leading to faster project completion and more innovative outcomes. ABW designs often include social and relaxation areas, which allow employees to take breaks and recharge. This can lead to lower stress levels, reduced burnout, and better mental health, all of which contribute to higher productivity. ABW also allows companies to use their office space more efficiently. Rather than providing each employee with a fixed desk, companies can create a variety of spaces that are used based on demand, making it a more cost-effective setup. Since employees can choose the space that works best for their style—whether it’s a quiet area or a collaborative hub—ABW caters to diverse personalities and preferences, leading to more satisfied and productive teams.
Gallery
IoT-Enabled Workspaces
The Internet of Things (IoT) connects devices, lighting, HVAC systems, and office equipment to a central network for seamless management. Here’s how it can improve your office environment.
Smart lighting
Automated lights that adjust based on time of day or occupancy. They can even be personalized to individual workstations, entire floors. Lighting has been shown to be an increasingly important factor in employee wellness surveys.
Climate control
Smart thermostats ensure optimal temperature based on room occupancy and employee preferences as well as managing energy usage, using fans as opposed to HVAC systems which are far more energy intensive where possible.
Desk and room booking systems
Employees can easily book available workspaces or meeting rooms via an app, avoiding conflicts and saving time. Use centralized apps to control devices and choose modular, scalable IoT systems that can evolve with your office. Every employee from the receptionist to the directors are able to book spaces for meetings or other activities. Employees can be designated certain permissions on certain rooms or desks to avoid overlaps.
Phone and device charging
Employees can charge their phones, tablets, or laptops by simply placing them on designated charging areas. These is very simple and inexpensive technology to integrate into your office space design and provides an improved experience through convenience alone. We are so reliant on charging stations and a truly integrated office, with employees not confined to a desk or space, the requirement for available charging stations is a game changer.
Integration with furniture
Smart desks are innovative, tech-enabled workstations that offer a variety of customizable features aimed at improving comfort, productivity, and well-being in the office. With a mix of ergonomic design, automated adjustments, and connectivity features, smart desks help employees create an optimized work environment tailored to their needs. They’re particularly valuable in modern, hybrid offices where flexibility and personalization are top priorities.
