Research reveals that poor workspaces are costing the UK billions of pounds.

UK workers estimate they waste 68 minutes per week on unproductive tasks at their workplace, which costs employers PS485,000,000 each week.

Mitie’s research found that employers can boost productivity in the country by investing into well-designed, high-performance workspaces.

The UK findings reveal that employees are wasting time on unproductive tasks such as finding a good room for a meeting with wifi, building services like slow lifts or lack of collaboration spaces.

Mitie discovered that the physical environment of the workplace is a key factor in how employees feel about their employers and whether or not they want to stay.

Ninety nine per cent of employees who are happy with their workplace are also happy with their employer. Only 23% of people who are unhappy with their workplace are satisfied with their employers, while 56% are not.

Mark Caskey said, “Employers can improve their workspaces to increase employee engagement and productivity, while also driving innovation for the benefit of a multi-generational workforce.”

There are many friction points in office environments across the UK that negatively impact employee satisfaction, which impacts directly on productivity. It’s not all bad news, as some of these issues are under the control of the employer. For example, they can ensure that the appropriate spaces are available for the tasks, such as quiet or collaborative spaces, and any technology is working properly.

The research shows that, contrary to popular belief only 55% employees will be attracted to the office through social opportunities. Only 29% of respondents said recreational amenities such as gyms and social break-out areas contributed to their overall satisfaction.

The following factors contributed to the dissatisfaction of employees with their physical workplace: an unattractive or poorly designed workspace (46%); a poorly-maintained workplace (51%); and a lack of essential technology and tools such as faulty Wi-Fi and missing equipment (26%).

Caskey continued: “When workplaces have been designed and managed with people in the forefront, they can be powerful facilitators of transformation and collaboration, resulting in high levels of productivity and satisfaction. They want to spend time there. People flourish, and communities gain, leading to a workforce which ultimately helps the economy get critical momentum.”