As the role of the workplace has changed, so have the needs of its workers. Yet, many spaces are still working against attempts by company leadership to improve productivity, retention and employee satisfaction. According to a recent study by Gensler, two-thirds of employees report ‘hacking’ their workspace to compensate for gaps in function, ergonomics, acoustics, temperature or privacy. These gaps have real consequences: workers in underperforming environments are significantly less likely to feel that they can do their best work in their place of work. Below are some common examples of problems workers frequently report as distractions or functional issues hindering their satisfaction and productivity.
Acoustics
Noise is a key problem area requiring intentional solutions. Data from the Leesman Index found that only 35% of employees surveyed are satisfied with noise levels in their workplace. Further, noise levels can negatively impact productivity and memory. A study on multitask visual cognitive performance reports that specific noise conditions measurably affect focus and memory. For example, a rise in traffic noise from 50 to 65 decibels reduced location-memory accuracy by 4.42%. Acoustic control in a workplace is something that is crucial to whether workers can focus and complete quiet work.
Solutions to acoustic problems can be addressed with product or through structural design. Soundproofed walls, soft furnishings, screens, wall coverings and decor can all contribute to stronger acoustic protection and the creation of ‘zones’ across a workplace. This encourages gathering and collaboration in places where noise is wanted, such as break rooms and kitchens, and quiet in areas intended for deep work. For spaces without areas for private work or meetings, hush booths can be added as a supplement. Solutions are possible for all builds and with a range of aesthetic features!
Wellness and Flexibility
Flexible layout is here to stay. Spaces that were once used for formal meetings may now be sitting empty. Businesses with the highest worker satisfaction are now focusing on engagement: getting people into the office and encouraging them to feel connected to the mission of your business and to each other. Some ways to reinforce this connection through design are through color, texture, softness and hospitality environments. Think soft, welcoming colors and warm, rich or natural textures. Places where people naturally gather, and where others will look forward to visiting for your events or special occasions. Some of the areas where workers feel their current workplace most underperforms are in natural spaces, with access to light and collaborative indoor/outdoor spaces. In a place like San Diego, utilizing the climate to the advantage of your business is a massive advantage.
The power of choice
The through line of the current workplace is choice. The choice to decide where you work, how loud that environment will be, what the layout of your space will be like. Allowing your employees to have freedom in their space to decide how they work best, and designing your space to foster that choice, is crucial to maintaining high productivity and satisfaction.
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