What is a flexible workplace and why you need it
If you’ve been paying attention to the changes in work dynamics lately, you’ve probably heard about the concept of a “flexible workplace.” This is a growing trend in the business world, and increasing in popularity every day as more businesses are recognizing the benefits of enabling their employees to work in a flexible manner. Employees are also demanding flexible options and it seems that offering a flexible workplace can heavily impact employee retention and attraction.
According to MRI Software Market Insights, 64% of the 6,000+ US, UK, and Australian office workers surveyed say hotel-style features impact their decision on whether to work for an organization. These features include facilities that embrace flexible work schedules, amenities for socializing, outdoor spaces and state-of-the-art infrastructure. But what exactly is a flexible workplace, and how can you create one in your own business and office?
A flexible workplace is a modern work environment designed to adapt to the changing needs of the business and its employees. Given the hybrid enrollment, flexible workplaces offer opportunities for employees to experience greater connection, collaboration and community. It is especially focused on adapting to the hybrid environment and promotes autonomy and choice for workers so they can do their best work.
Here are 5 steps to implement a flexible workplace
- Conduct a needs assessment. The first step in implementing a flexible workplace is to assess the needs of the business and its employees. This will help you understand what type of workspace will best support their desired work experiences, needs and goals.
- Design your workspace. Once you have a clear understanding of the needs of the business and its employees, you can begin to design the workspace. This will involve choosing the right furniture, layout, and technology to create a space that is functional, comfortable, and conducive to collaboration and community.
- Implement smart building technology. In today’s day and age, smart building technology is a key aspect of a flexible workplace because it offers seamless ways for your employees to use their office space. They can search and discover the right space, technology, desk, or proximity to colleagues that will enable them to be collaborative and productive in the workplace. Smart building technology can help you create an environment that’s customizable for any employee’s situation by giving them the autonomy to choose their desired office experience.
- Train and onboard employees. Once the workspace has been designed and the technology has been implemented, it's important to train employees on how to use the new workspace and technology. This will help them to get the most out of the flexible workplace and ensure that they are able to work efficiently and effectively. Educating employees along with offering spaces and functionality they want will increase adoption and prove return on investment.
- Assess your new flexible workplace. Understanding how your employees are using your space and technology is the best way to improve processes and confirm you’re providing a workplace that they desire. By receiving data-driven insights such as which types of spaces are in demand on which days or how employees are adopting your technology, you can adjust your flexible workplace strategy and optimize the workspace.
By following the steps outlined above, you can create the flexible workplaces that are in high demand and meet the needs of both your organization and employees. It’s time to embrace collaboration, connection and community in the workplace.
If you’re looking to implement a flexible workplace in a turnkey fashion with smart building technology and consultations throughout the journey, sign up for a Free Consultation.
