Organizational Behaviour Research - Office Design and Productivity # 2

Summary of the content

The article "Understanding office design and productivity" discusses the importance of workplace environment for productivity and explores how office design can impact employee performance. It emphasizes that productivity is not achieved through micromanagement or surveillance, but rather through understanding the task at hand and being motivated to complete it. The article suggests that drops in productivity should be seen as an opportunity to identify potential barriers in the workplace, such as cluttered workstations or a lack of quiet spaces. The balance between style and substance in office design is also highlighted. While visually appealing desks and chairs may be attractive, they should also prioritize employee comfort and ergonomics. The article emphasizes the need for a great office space that combines both form and function to set employees up for success.

Evidence is presented to support the impact of office design on productivity. Data from Savills UK reveals that a majority of people believe that if their workplace reflected their ideal environment, it would improve their productivity. However, only a small percentage of employees have been asked for their opinion on their work environment by their employers. This suggests a potential gap between employee preferences and actual office design.

The article explores various elements of office design that can affect productivity. It discusses the importance of office layout, highlighting the need for employees to have the freedom to move and work in different spaces. The challenges of open-plan offices are also examined, including the lack of privacy, increased distractions, and reliance on digital communication. Office interior design is another aspect covered in the article. It emphasizes the impact of color, lighting, and materials on productivity. The concept of biophilic design, incorporating natural elements into the workspace, is presented as a way to enhance productivity and well-being. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of ergonomic furniture and the role of storage in maintaining an organized and efficient workspace.

Das Samsung HQ ist als Ort der Begegnung konzipiert.

Foto: Tim Griffith

My sharing of similar experience

I used to work for an open-plan office design company. It was a workplace design where you could interact with your coworkers, supervisors, and subordinates at any time. Although the author raises that the open-plan offices are facing some challenge like the lack of privacy, increased disctractions, I still can see the some benefits bring from this type of workplace. The open space design completely breaks down hierarchical boundaries, and coworkers have the courage to express themselves by interacting with their supervisors face-to-face in non-office or conference room settings. This interaction fosters relationships between supervisors and subordinates, and provides the company with more opportunities to gain new perspectives and ideas.

Reference:

Wherry, L. (2022). Understanding office design and productivity. Retrieved from Interaction: https://www.interaction.uk.com/insight/articles/office-design-productivity/