There’s no doubt that our surroundings can shape the way we think, feel, and work. Yet not enough attention is paid to the spaces we work in and tools we work with: Barely half of U.S. workers feel satisfied with their current work environment.
The truth is, we could all be much happier, more productive, and better focused if we put greater intent into how we design our workplace environment. So which factors matter most when creating a great workspace?
The modern workspace is evolving
Plenty of studies will tell you what they think the ideal workspace looks like: high ceilings, light blue walls, and probably a lot of plants. But research into the wants and needs of actual employees tells a different story: Work flexibility is rated the second-highest factor in overall employee happiness, behind compensation.
This suggests that highly mobile and adaptable digital tools are the most important consideration in a workspace, above physical preferences. The visibility, collaboration, and security of these tools should be top of mind when creating an open and productive work environment.
That’s not to say that your physical environment isn’t important. Finding the right balance between comfort and focus in your surroundings can increase your persistence in tackling challenging problems.
Different work demands different spaces
A one-size-fits-all workspace is destined to fail because different types of work demand different states of mind. In the end, truly great workspaces are made with a mix of deliberate design, digital flexibility, and a dash of personal preference.
Check out these posts for further reading on remote work, employee happiness, and more:
- Working Remotely or Remotely Working? Tips for Confident Remote Collaboration
- Fostering Happiness: What Makes Employees Thrive
- Let’s Rethink Employee Appreciation (Video)
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