The Future of Workplace Productivity

The future of workplace productivity is a keynote for many businesses in this newly defined digital age. 

Productivity concerns the effective and efficient use of resources in an organisation. Although several contributing factors impact workplace productivity, ultimately, it can be calculated by dividing the value produced by the total cost or time required to achieve the intended outcome.

Productivity has been discussed widely since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. And while previously, businesses built policies around their on-site workforce, studies show a considerable correlation between hybrid models and increased productivity. Although each working environment brings advantages and disadvantages, hybrid models appear to be the future. As new instances and variables continue to emerge, one thing that remains a requirement is for companies to provide a productive, healthy environment that allows groups of people to work efficiently during any given time. 

Moving forward, companies should pinpoint how they can ensure hybrid working performs for both employees and the business. 

People prefer hybrid working because it is the best of both worlds. With increased flexibility and a more suitable work-life balance, employees are less likely to experience burnout in environments that cater best to their week-on-week schedule. Furthermore, on-site benefits such as effortless access to technology, in-person collaboration, routine, and visibility are each incredibly important to an employee's personal development and productivity. 

Productivity goes hand in hand with job satisfaction, and businesses hoping to boost productivity must be willing to invest in their people. Equally, the design of office spaces is a significant factor affecting workplace productivity.

Maximise employee potential with a workplace designed around people that converges and reflects the following key areas:

Comfort

Employees need to feel comfortable in their surroundings to be productive. In a Leesman survey of nearly 136,000 respondents, the top features identified as the most important part of an effective workspace were all directly related to physical comfort: desk, chair, and temperature control.

Company equipment and facilities are important aspects of employee comfort levels; if a worker is experiencing discomfort, they will be more distracted. Additionally, the temperature of a room can play a major role in a worker's concentration levels. In a CareerBuilder study, 53% of surveyed employees found themselves less productive when their work environment was too cold. If the majority of employees are uncomfortable in their workplace, there will likely be a significant reduction in output.

Collaboration and Culture

The value of on-site and in-person interaction has resurfaced as digital fatigue persists and companies want to rebuild their cultures.

Effective workplace design can shape collaboration and strengthen social connections. Feeling part of a team ensures employees feel encouraged, inspired and more visible.

Alongside the transition to remote working arrived wait times for responses via emails or video calls. Formerly, finding a colleague to answer a question was as simple as walking over to their desk. Times have changed, however, as Panopto's findings suggest employees spend an average of five hours a week waiting to hear from people with unique knowledge. 

Up-To-Date Technology and Security

Several benefits come with adopting innovative software and technology, such as increased employee satisfaction and heightened security. According to a study by Ultimate Software, 92% of employees believe that technology that enables them to do their job more efficiently influences their overall work satisfaction. 

Being digitally mature helps employees feel assured their work is safe and backed up at all times. Studies have shown workers feel more secure and confident in their roles with integrated cyber security, cloud storage, and digital collaboration tools. 

Efficient use of resources is crucial to enhancing employee potential. With each of the above resources directly impacting productivity levels, it is time to rethink how we can best support workers. 

Find out in Part 2 how leveraging digital twin technology and integrated tenant experience apps create a healthy, resourceful and comfortable workplace where employees accomplish their best results. 

PART TWO