One recent study found that office design, not perks, bonuses, or even pay raises, had the biggest effect on employee happiness. And happy employees are productive employees.
The key to a great office is putting the employees’ well-being first when designing it, not the bottom line.
Following these do’s and don’ts of modern office designs can help you create a space that fosters happy, healthy, and productive employees.
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Do: Consider Lighting
A critical component to consider when thinking about how to design an office is lighting.
Light, and a lack of exposure to it, can have deep psychological effects on humans. A lack of proper lighting can adversely affect mood, memory, and concentration.
And it’s not just the amount of light, but the color. Brain cells react the most negatively to blue light wavelengths (yes, that light that comes off computer screens).
When possible, offices should have access to natural lighting, and indoor lighting should be as neutral as possible.
Don’t: Prioritize Price Over Quality
While budget is always a factor in workplace spending, don’t go for the lowest cost office tools just because they are the cheapest.
Your office is a place for your employees to get work done, but it is also a way to project your brand to the world. It is also an opportunity to reflect your company’s culture.
Quality office products are important to help your team achieve its goals efficiently. Computers, copiers, printers, and other technology should be reliable and easy to use.
If purchasing quality equipment is cost-prohibitive, consider other options. For example, lease a copier instead of buying one.
From buying furniture made only from sustainable wood to putting pedal desks for active and fit employees in, there are lots of ways to make the space a reflection of your business.
Do: Provide Flexibility in Your Modern Office Designs
Different tasks require different sorts of workstations. Some tasks that require a high level of focus, or privacy, will require a quiet, secluded area. Collaborative work needs an area that is spacious enough for group work.
Giving employees the right kind of office design to get their work done helps them perform at their highest levels.
Don’t: Create a “Cubicle Farm”
The one space that everyone can agree on not wanting is the dreaded cubicle farm. What began as a concept to increase productivity and reduce costs has become the most hated office design in history.
Do: Ask Your Team
No one knows the needs of the employees better than those employees themselves. Your team is the ones that spend the most time in the office. Make sure to include them when possible when designing the space.
Reaching out to employees on a person-to-person basis builds trust and helps them feel ownership of the space (and, by extension, their job). Let them tell you what they need to succeed.
A Well Planned Office Equals Happy Workers
Well-planned modern office designs can increase employees’ well-being, satisfaction, and productivity. It can also be a positive reflection of your business’ brand and culture.
To learn more about how to streamline your business, boost productivity, and create a healthy bottom line, read more of the articles on our site. We cover everything from business and new to travel and lifestyle.
