Office Trends to Look Out For
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More than 50% of employees still work in traditional, partitioned, and inflexible workspaces. But the fast development of communication technology is changing the workplace. Five major trends dictate and shape the design and planning of the future’s offices. Mobility The advent of tablets, notebooks, and smart phones make the office location-independent. Technology allows free access to data wherever and whenever. Several companies are shifting to decentralised business centres, at home or on the go, as long as they have Internet access. The widespread use of gadgets redefines location-independent and flexible office work. Network Organisations Companies are transforming into a network of organisations. Decentralised networks supersede traditional hierarchies which allow everyone to contribute to the success of the company. It also allows workers to contribute their part independent of place and time. Flatter organisational structures are slowly adapting to flexible work schedules and patterns to meet the demands of the new workforce. Compact Workstations Space-saving technology and mobility have made workstations compact and minimalist in design. Open spaces around workstations change into common areas or central zones to brainstorm. Screens, partitions, and panels are becoming more creative to bring vibrancy into the workplace.
Central Meeting Zone The central meeting zone plays a vital role as a communication point where employees discuss ideas and private or business matters. There is an increasing penchant to downsize the conventional office to create central zones for the workforce. Lounges and working cafes as central areas epitomize the modern office lifestyle. Importance of Design and Creativity The days of plain offices with a linear design are gone. IT companies have set the tone for employeefriendly and creative office design to retain and encourage employees. Meetings in the modern office may take place in stylish cafes or innovative lounges in the office. The designs are not the end goal, but are tools to boost creative energy, healthy social friction, and foster a creative workplace. Higher Demand for Efficiency Efficient and fluid work process defines good office design; optimal use of space makes operations smoother. Central zones and well-designed lounges are increasing in importance in the contemporary work lifestyle. An office that is creative and functional improves performance and gives businesses another dimension to beat the competition, and retain and attract talent. Sources: www.thecaretakers.com.au http://www.wiesner-hager.com/en/press/the-5main-office-trends-for-2015-67/ http://www.smartcompany.com.au/leadership/ma nagement/35958-the-power-of-office-design-10top-trends-to-watch.html