Cultivating a healthy work environment isn’t always easy. Setting the right tone in the workplace to entice employees and encourage them to be productive can be accomplished by taking a closer look at the architecture and aesthetics of your business. On that note, let’s take a look at how office design affects productivity in the workplace.
Noisy Locations
Understandably, excessive noise is disruptive for a work environment and causes negative effects when it comes to staff members’ productivity. Obviously, you can’t do much if you’re located in a noisy area, but you can ensure that the office layout reduces noise for your benefit. Distractions of any kind will interrupt people who are trying to focus on work, thus having them resort to anger and frustration.
This only derails their efforts to get back into a productive headspace. Employers who attempt to make their workspaces more peaceful and eliminate chaos will find that the office runs more smoothly. Disruptions and outside noise coming through non-soundproof windows are only going to discourage the work ethic of your hard-working staff.
Small Shared Spaces
A lack of personal space can cause irritability among colleagues, and make it extremely difficult for them to focus on tasks, especially if they don’t have any privacy. As mentioned above, constant disruptions from passersby, talkative employees, or excessive noise can cause someone to lose concentration. The lack of privacy in a cubicle or shared office space can also hinder progress if an employee can’t feel at ease. If each person has their own office space, they are more likely to relax thus, becoming more productive in the process.
If you can’t afford to provide your employees with private office spaces, consider offering another alternative. The inability to leave their confined corner can trigger restlessness. Studies have found that allowing your employees a breather in a staff room or an outside space often helps soothe and encourage them to finish their tasks with a newfound motivation.
If you can manage some renovations, consider a plan that would suit all employees. Give them some control over their workspace, and consult with specialists to come up with a suitable plan. Then, you can seek out services that specialize in building bespoke office fit-outs.
Most Sydney office specialists advise business owners to proceed with quality research to ensure that you hire professionals who pay great attention to detail and have an aptitude for design and project planning. That way, you’ll successfully create a work environment that everyone can be proud of, and with expert tips, you’ll find the best designs to boost productivity.
Lack of Control Over Surroundings
An unsatisfactory work environment is one of the first reasons people’s productivity levels decrease. This is usually due to the lack of control one has in their own work environment. No exposure to natural light can negatively impact people’s moods. This is why providing employees with some control over their surroundings can help. Finding a good private office space for rent should include: Location, weather, the businesses surrounding the space, and the kind of landlord you can communicate with. Below are some of the issues that generally come up:
For instance, allow them to control the temperature or lighting of the room, have exposure to natural light, or even have a desk with adjustable options and sufficient storage can prevent them from becoming frustrated and performing poorly. Making sure employees’’ needs are met and providing them with the necessary surroundings and tools to make their job easier and efficient can have tremendous effects on their productivity.
Dull Atmosphere
Dull, plain walls and a dreary atmosphere can also have negative impacts on people’s mental well-being. This can quickly diminish your employees’ work ethic. A simple way to turn this around is to place plants around the office as the greenery is known to uplift people’s moods and calm stressful minds.
Also, provide each employee with the opportunity to decorate their workspace as they deem fit. They can place photographs or even consider gathering everyone around to paint the walls a bright color. That way everyone is surrounded by a comforting atmosphere that inspires positive thoughts with the aesthetics evoking feelings of energy and warmth.
Unorganized Work Space
Casual work environments tend to be less productive in general. A lack of structure and a messy layout only causes more stress and frustration. Most people perform better when an office has structure, a feasible routine, and an organized workspace. Having easily accessible equipment and all necessary tools having their rightful place makes the whole office run efficiently.
To improve your employees’ productivity, efficiency, and overall health, it’s important to realize that the office design is a determining factor. A workplace that has adequate space and privacy, a soothing interior design, and a relaxing break area will effectively boost productivity and cultivate a positive and healthy work environment.
Interesting related article: “What is Ergonomics?“