Thoughtful office space planning will:
- enhance job satisfaction and employee engagement,
- foster recruitment and retention of top quality employees,
- create a sense of community,
- provide functional environments for staff performing diverse duties,
- encourage interaction and teamwork,
- convey a sense of workplace equality through consistent distribution of space,
- provide flexibility in adapting to changing business conditions,
- give the impression of consistency and professionalism,
- simplify management of assets and better use resources.
Key principles of office space planning include:
- There is an increased emphasis on natural lighting, privacy and comfort in the designs.
- Computer technology has brought about a shift in the way office space is designed over the last 10 or 15 years.Probably the most important factor related to this is that offices have to deliver maximum connectivity. Consideration has to be given to adequate power, phone and data jacks and connectors.
- Employees are often required to work in teams and collaborations so group spaces are often required. Co-location of related functions reduces walking. People in related jobs should be located close together. Assistants should be located near the personnel they support.
- Space is often repurpose-able so the physical layout must allow for movement and change with changing needs. This is a part of developing an Agile Workplace. Modular furniture systems should be used to increase flexibility and reduce cost. In many cases, wall mounted and overhead storage systems can be used to improve floor space utilization.
- Work stations can be closed and private for staff engaged in activities demanding more decision-making or solitary creative activity, and shared or open for employees in support roles. However, all office spaces should be designed to provide views and natural light where possible. Wherever possible, exterior corners should be allocated to conference rooms or multi-purpose rooms. Standard work stations should be equipped with at least one voice and data jack, three duplex power outlets for lighting, specialty equipment and general convenience.
- Shared space should be available including conference rooms and breakout rooms, training spaces, reception areas, office machine spaces, kitchens and lounges.
- To minimize noise, a majority of work spaces should be placed away from main traffic flow areas and reception areas. Work areas should be separated from each other by sound-isolating partitions where possible.
OfficeFinder, LLC can help you find optimal office space for your business and support you in your office space planning. Please contact us for more information.
Related: Office Space Planning Checklist