A new global study shows that open offices are failing today’s workers
91% employees would return to work more frequently if the office met their needs
In the post-pandemic hybrid workplace, the fully open-plan, which was once touted as the future of collaboration, no longer serves its purpose. Crown Workspace has released a report that surveyed 1,250 workers in the UK, US and Singapore as well as facility decision makers from New Zealand, Hong Kong, India and New Zealand.
Crown Workspace commissioned the research to reveal a growing disconnect in the design of offices today and the changing needs of the occupants.
Office attendance: preference vs reality
The overwhelming majority of employees (91%) say that they would return more frequently to their office if it better met their needs. This highlights a great opportunity for companies to reimagine the work environment. There is a notable disconnect between employee attendance and their preferences. While 59% of employees currently work full-time in an office, only 41% prefer it. Nearly half of respondents (47%) prefer a hybrid model to reflect the increasing demand for flexibility.
The office is still valuable despite this shift. Only 25% of employees feel more productive at home, while 45% report feeling that they are more productive at work.
The impact of environment and design on productivity
The open-plan concept was once thought to be a great way to encourage collaboration. However, they are often lacking in terms of creativity and productivity. The furniture, layout and flexibility of the office space has a major impact on employee performance and wellbeing. However, only one quarter (24%) believe that their current set-up supports these outcomes. Employees want workspaces that support their ability to focus and create, not hinder it.
The desire for quiet zones and dedicated workspaces is high. 67% of respondents say that access to quiet spaces is important, while 77% place a premium on having a dedicated work space. Another 70% of respondents believe that having a dedicated desk with a personalized setup is crucial to a positive experience in the office. Workspaces that prioritize focus, ownership and comfort are essential for businesses who want to boost creativity and productivity.
The survey indicates that while collaborative and open spaces are good for offices, companies have been neglecting the importance of quiet spaces.
Technology and its role
It is possible that employees are less productive when they’re at home because they lack the same technology they use at work. More than a third (36%) of employees only have access at work to a second screen, which highlights the advantage that workplaces offer in terms of specialised technology resources. 40% of employees only say that they have a printer at work, while just 5% have one at home. This shows the difference in access between the two.
The majority of other tools, like industry-specific equipment are only available in offices. 58% of employees say they have them at their desks, while just 4% report that they can use them exclusively from home.
The Future – Flexible, Focused, and Fit for Purpose
In the next three to five years, 76% say that they plan on creating more interactive and engaging workplaces. Some are changing the way they use their space, storing furniture, desk equipment and safety supplies away from the office to create new layouts better suited for hybrid and collaborative workstyles.
Interesting, 48% expect their offices to shrink during the same time period. This trend could be a result of changing workplace dynamics following the pandemic. Phil Oram, UKI regional director at Crown Workspace explains that “since the pandemic the physical space an office occupies have come under increased scrutiny. It’s important to design Workspace according to the needs of your workforce, especially with fewer employees in the office. Organisations must also plan for a sustainable future in line with global sustainability goals. While offices are downsizing, there is no need to throw away equipment. There are many opportunities to recycle and upcycle, giving these items another life.”
What is the verdict? Open office: Rethink or retire?
Phil Oram, commenting on the findings of the report, said: “Our study shows that modern workers want more from their workplace environments. The modern workforce is looking for office environments that promote both performance and wellbeing. The fully open office has been popular for decades, but it fails to provide the quiet and personalized spaces that people need to thrive. Future offices will be flexible, functional and designed with the people in mind. It’s time to change the way employers think about their workspace and to take action to make it a place that supports their employees.
The original version of this article Open offices are failing the modern workforce appeared first on Human Resources News.
