Why the Staff Break Area Should be Properly Planned Out
When it comes to work productivity, break time is hardly counted under productive employee hours. This explains why function rooms are limited and often left out in blueprints. Many companies fail to look at these leisure corners as contributors in work productivity. Work lounges often fall under the miscellaneous category during workplace planning and building. Office furniture has traditionally been about the chair and the desk in the minimalist meeting room. The workplace may have a lounge area somewhere, but this might serve a little less for lounging and more for branding.
Autonomy through Lounge Rooms Break areas are about being productive away from the desk. According to an article by the Harvard Business Review “Employees Perform Better When They Can Control Their Space,� the importance of a well-planned, employee-oriented space can greatly affect work productivity. The physical environment can serve as a foundation for an effective workforce. In a 2013 workplace survey, the power of choice and autonomy drives employee happiness, motivation and performance.
The Presence of Choices Leads to Productivity The researchers from the design and architectural firm Gensler found that workers whose companies allow them to help in making decisions are more satisfied with their jobs. The study also shows that employees perform better and view their company as more innovative. According to the researcher, an office having lounge-style seating areas and plenty of places to relax supports innovation and employee choice. This setup promotes socialisation among colleagues and may be a venue for brainstorming. As this relaxation corner is in the office, the staff can prevent downtime by choosing to stay in lounge corners during their break instead of stepping out of the office. Workplace autonomy is just one part of a broader culture of staff independence. This allows employees to optimise their job performance, while remaining satisfied and motivated at work.
Resources: http://www.thecaretakers.com.au/renovations/commercial/ http://www.fastcompany.com/1395623/new-work-space-will-lounge-office-furnitureinspire-big-ideas https://hbr.org/2014/01/employees-perform-better-when-they-can-control-theirspace/?utm_source=Socialflow