A productive workforce, reduced absenteeism, increased employee morale and competitive advantage when attracting top talent….
According to a number of recent surveys, these are just some of the benefits achievable through a well-designed workplace environment.
For those of you wondering where to start with regard to optimising your office layout, fixtures and fittings; here are six relatively subtle examples to consider before consulting your local Feng-Shui Master!
Good Air Quality – In addition to the detrimental impact which poor air circulation has on employee productivity, there are also various health concerns such as fatigue, headaches and those niggly coughs! On the other hand, a good supply of oxygen is reinvigorating and capable of significantly enhancing a person’s concentration and energy levels. In order to maintain ample air quality, organisations should install efficient ventilation systems, purchase office plants and introduce regular ‘open window’ policies (weather permitting of course!).
Optimum Temperature – Is everyone familiar with Goldilocks and the Three Bears? Well, it’s kind of the same scenario with employee productivity. If an office is too hot or too cold, workers are likely to become distracted and hence less productive. According to numerous studies, a temperature of around 22°C is just right!
Appropriate Lighting – Another factor which affects both employee productivity and well-being. Organisations are advised to subject their employees to as much natural light as possible, not only will they feel more energised whilst at work; natural light also improves a person’s sleep patterns and general quality of life. When the supply of natural light is limited, employers must consider the effect that artificial light has on their staff. Workspaces that are too light or too dark can incur headaches, eyestrain and migraines.
Motivational Office Decor – According to psychologists, certain colours play important roles in heightening specific aspects of employee performance including enhancing productivity, sparking creativity and even facilitating physical exertion. If you are looking to increase productivity, make sure that your workplace decor contains plenty of green! Displaying artwork around the office is also believed to be an effective motivator, examples include paintings, photography and posters incorporating inspirational quotes.
A Change of Scenery at Break Times – Many organisations now provide a place for their employees to ‘chill out’ during break periods, specifically designed to take their minds off work for a short while. Break rooms come in all shapes and sizes; some firms prefer a quiet place with comfy sofas where employees can talk and unwind while others have introduced ‘games rooms’ equipped with pool tables, dartboards, table tennis, foosball and even games consoles!
Provision of Complementary Healthy Snacks – Another recent survey which investigated the effects of free snacks on organisational morale, discovered that one of the quickest ways to an employee’s heart was through their stomach! The study also revealed numerous ‘brain foods’ capable of boosting productivity, memory and focus. Employers, don’t forget to add nuts, eggs, blueberries and bananas to your shopping list!
Are you looking to become more productive?
Ceequel® Employee Management Software delivers an unparalleled workforce management solution. Our intelligent time and attendance systems enable organisations to monitor employee attendance, configure complex shift patterns, streamline clocking to payroll processes and counteract absenteeism. If you would like to learn more about Ceequel® time and attendance or any of our other human resource management software modules, please contact ELF Productivity.
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