How Office Design Impacts Employee Productivity

Office Evolution

When you want to improve productivity in the workplace, most business leaders start with the employee.

  • How are they spending their time at work? 
  • Are they doing non-work-related tasks, such as checking Facebook? 
  • Are they feeling stressed or unmotivated?

However, many company leaders fail to recognize that office design can have as much to do with productivity as the employees themselves. Some offices are more productive than others simply because they’ve been designed that way, which is one reason why collaborative workspace is on the rise. 

Take a look at some of the biggest ways the office environment threatens worker productivity and how you can combat their ill effects.

Lighting

Good lighting is essential in balancing the harsh glare of LED and LCD computer screens. The right lighting can help to reduce headaches and fatigue, creating fewer obstacles for employees to push through. Studies show that a well-lit, well-ventilated workspace can increase productivity by up to 16%. 

Furniture

Furniture that isn’t ergonomic or enjoyable doesn’t set a promising tone. Employees who are uncomfortable at work because of a rickety chair or low desk will spend more time trying to find a position they can work in and won’t be able to do their best work. 

common area Ambiance

Ambiance might not directly affect productivity, but it can impact employee satisfaction, which is one of the biggest contributors to a productive environment. Sitting in a dull, uninspired office doesn’t invite motivation, which can lead to a drop in satisfaction and productivity.

Rather, employers should consider the role visual aesthetics play, such as wall color, artwork, plants, or other items. 

Privacy

Some employees thrive in the company of others, which is why the community workspace has been gaining steam. Employees work at collaborative desks, where they can bounce ideas off each other, work together on projects, and hold each other accountable.

However, some employees do their best work in a private workspace where they can tune out the noise and other distractions. 

Having a blend of both social and private areas lets employees choose how they work best so they can do their best work, regardless of how everyone else chooses to work.

Day Office-5Technology

Today’s office technology can streamline the way you work if you can afford it. Solutions like CRM and cloud-based phone systems are among some of the most affordable office technologies that promise to influence productivity. 

Other tools like automatic time tracking, room scheduling software, package tracking software, and texting platforms also tout promising productivity benefits. However, it can be hard for a business to justify the expenses, especially if employees are spending time learning and troubleshooting new tech rather than working.

Amenities

Employees need time to recharge, and not just at night. Simple amenities can make office life easier. Things like a coffee and snack station let employees take quick breaks in-office rather than walking down the street to a coffee shop. 

Kitchen & Shared Workspace (3)If you have the funds, luxury amenities like a music room, game room, or meditation area lets them focus on their well-being and may provide inspiration. The more you can take care of your workers, the better prepared they’ll be to work for you.

Maximize Your Design via a Collaborative Workspace

Is your office space conducive to productivity? If not, the lack of motivation might not be your employees’ fault. 

Office Evolution has mindfully designed private and collaborative workspaces to promote a productive environment. From amenities to technology to inspiring offices, we’ve taken the guesswork out of designing a workplace your employees will be happy to call home. Come visit us in person and see how we’re transforming the workday for productivity-craving companies. Simply find the Office Evolution location nearest you to get started.