There are a number of elements that are required to make a truly flexible or agile workspace, which we’ve touched on a little already.
However, there are some other, less tangible elements that also need consideration when planning for a space for an agile workspace.
More staff than ever want to embrace the flexible working revolution and work in an agile environment. Therefore, these needs should be fostered in your office.
The benefits of flexible working are clear; happier staff, a more productive business and a better reputation in the industry.
Aside from fitting out the physical space itself, here are some other ways to make sure your attempt at agile working is successful.
Employee Input
Listen to the people that will actually be using your agile workspace.
Your staff know what they want, so it’s certainly best to engage with them before designing and fitting out your agile workspaces.
Perhaps it’s the need for more comfortable furniture, or food and drink in closer proximity. Whatever their wants and needs, your staff can let you know.
Surveys and regular meetings throughout the idea and design process, will help you keep in constant touch with your workers and get a feel for their mood and thoughts.
A professional Sydney office fit-out and design company like Niche Projects can help you make the most of this feedback.
Creating Opportunities for Collisions
The collision of ideas in your workspace must be encouraged at all costs.
It’s collaboration that creates ingenuity, and this collaboration is often between unlikely sources. Therefore, do what you can to foster these unlikely connections.
Do this by providing some open areas with couches and seats, where employees will find it easy to begin a conversation with one another.
If you factor this into your office fit-out, you’ll be sure to see the benefits of these collisions in the future.
Embody Flexibility
Management must be flexible in their approach to these new working types and areas, to find the methods that work most efficiently for the business.
This may involve finding a balance with time, space and the furnishings in your new space.
For example, weigh up the amount of time employees spend at their desks. Begin with a breakdown like 80% desk time and 20% flexible time.
The flexible time can increase in increments, as you work out which balance best works for your staff and your business.
You’ll also need to be flexible in your dealings with staff; holding meetings at short notice and clarifying aspects of your new approach.
To discuss spaces tailored to agile working for your business, get in touch with Niche Projects here.
