Workspace Variety Changing US Office Space Needs
The report states that organizations will create greater office efficiencies and higher levels of employee satisfaction if they provide flexibility and choice. The report also suggests that flexibility of workspace will become the standard by the time many current office leases expire.
The study consisted of more than 20,000 workers around the world. Throughout the study, two key themes emerged. First that people spend less than 50% of their workday at their desk. The second key theme was that workplaces that allow employees the ability to self-select their work location saw a 10% - 15% increase of employee satisfaction levels.
The study found that even in today’s increasingly virtual world, employees have a stronger sense of community and values the opportunity to connect with one another face to face. Employees and clients want to be engaged in a brand that reflects both the values of the firm and its employees.
According to the report, there is also increasing emphasis on both occupant and building health. Implementing wellness standards can positively impact employee morale, reduce absenteeism, and improve general mental and physical health.
Another change noted is how companies determine their future space needs. In the past a company would examine their existing office and determine what needed to change for the cheapest cost. Now companies want to create a more thoughtful workplace strategy by better understanding their unique work environment that balances the space with how their employees actually work.
Collectively the data from this study shows that a company can reinvest in technology and a suite of services to make the new workplace environment a reality for employees.
