We all know that getting the workspace right is essential to the success of the business, and maximising office space utilisation can improve efficiency, enhance collaboration, and reduce costs. Overall workplace satisfaction can be affected numerous the look and feel of the office, the lighting and even the noise levels. So how do you maximise it?
A forward-thinking approach to the workspace will ensure that the organisation will be able to adapt to changing needs more readily. By incorporating a variety of works stations that are equipped with state-of-the-art audio visual equipment and booking systems, as well as putting in the infrastructure to cater for future expansion, the space will be well prepared for any future expansion requirements. This proactive approach will reduce the frequency and cost of redesigning and changing the space, ensuring the workspace provides maximum return on investment as your business evolves.
Opting for modular layouts and furniture that can be easily reconfigured will accommodate different tasks and team sizes, thus maximising space and efficiency. Movable walls, adjustable desks and multi-functional furniture pieces allow you to create various work zones - collaborative and quiet. Several organisations have also incorporated a multi-functional space that can accommodate larger town-hall meetings, as well as serving as a breakout area for the standard days, giving a much more dynamic feel to the space. Flexibility is crucial to making the workspace future-proof as well. By having the variety of furniture and ensuring that the infrastructure is in place to support any changes will cater for any future business expansion requirements, making it a much better investment initially.
The rise of hybrid working as we know, has transformed the way most organisations work. For many organisations it has been necessary to decrease their workspace, due to hybrid working policies and working from home causing a decline in office attendance.
However, does this mean that there's not enough space for everyone? Hot-desking allows employees to use any available workstation, reducing the need for individual desks and freeing up valuable space. Combining this with dedicated collaboration zones and quiet areas to cater to different working styles and preferences will enable a more flexible and efficient use of space.
To achieve a space that helps you unleash the full potential of the organisation, considering undertaking some workspace strategy will help you as an organisation understand your own needs before you embark on any change. Through detailed studies, surveys, interviews and assessments, it will help you identify the critical functionality your space must fulfil. Woodhouse offer a comprehensive workspace strategy service that helps define the space that is tailored to you and your people, providing wow factor, but also supporting daily activities. Undertaking workspace strategy gives measurable insights into what spaces are currently working better than others, and what the space requirements of your teams are going forward.
Maximising office space utilisation is about creating a dynamic, adaptable environment that supports your team's needs and future growth. By first seeking to understand your needs, then making changes to the workspace, you can transform your office into a hub of collaboration and productivity.