Today, the workplace design is more dynamic than ever. Other than meeting the clients' budgetary, time, and risk requirements, the workplace has to address emerging issues and trends such as environmental sustainability and the evolution of digital technology for example. For companies to rise above the competition, which has become more intense due to globalisation and changing industry needs, they have to adapt to the changing market environment and customise solutions for their continued success.
With the rising trend in sustainable office and building solutions, interior companies can differentiate themselves with the adoption of environmentally friendly practices and certifications such as the Building Construction Authority (BCA) green mark and the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating systems. With these, companies are well-positioned to plan environmentally friendly offices for their clients, which in turn can help to reduce carbon footprint and also, according to reports, enhance employee morale and productivity.
The evolution of digital technology also poses implications for workplace design. With more people accessing digital and social media – tweeting, blogging, you-tubing – in their daily course of work, and as more staff practise off-site work arrangements such as working from home, the workplace is not just confined to one space and purpose anymore. Enter alternative workspaces. To incorporate these new ways of working across a range of diverse activities, employees should be given the freedom to engage one another through an open and fluid workplace design. Shared spaces such as bump areas or casual set-ups for meetings and discussions are ideally planned to facilitate interaction and sharing regardless of the medium they work with.
Offices that define and manifest the corporate culture and branding are important to create a shared culture and to facilitate bonding and sharing among colleagues. Especially for global offices, it's imperative that each office communicates the beliefs, visions, and values of the organisation to establish belonging and familiarity for staff and customers respectively.
Changing employee profiles and preferences of working have impacts on the workplace design. Generation Y appreciate the freedom of working anywhere, and they are predisposed to technology while baby boomers generally prefer a less open workspace. Catering to the needs and requirements of different generations is important to retain talent and in doing so, helps to grow a company.
Creativity brings out the difference in each and every design. Other than being functional, which is a given, a creative design can speak volumes about the culture of the company, and reflect the character and personality of the corporate brand. On top of that, a creative office builds loyalty and belonging for staff and inspires them in their work regardless of the industry they are in.
Competency and expertise are essential components in whatever service you render. With so many designers in the market, it's critical to stand out. And customers are now more discerning with their selection and are prone to working with suppliers with prior experience in their industry or market sector. Building a diversified portfolio with strong credentials in various industry sectors and project-type is now more imperative than before.
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