How to . . .

Boost productivity by improving office design

IF you have ever tried to work in a messy, disorganised space, you will appreciate the importance of order and design in the office. “Work space setup and decoration is directly connected to employee productivity,” said JP Beukes, CEO of interior design company OnePointZero.

He said he was aware that hiring a professional interior decorator was way beyond the budget of many small companies, “but there are steps these companies can take in trying to optimise workplace productivity”. Beukes had this advice:

Allow the shape, size and operational demands of your office to dictate what you do;

Allow employees to collaborate when making design decisions in the workplace. Happy, comfortable employees will be more productive than frustrated and uncomfortable employees;

Companies do not need to make big changes, because even small elements such as sound control and lighting can make a big difference to work space design and employee productivity;

When it comes to lighting, try to keep it as close to natural light as possible by using compact fluorescent bulbs, light-emitting diode lighting or natural lighting fixtures;

Pay attention to ergonomics. At the end of a long day, employees’ backs and necks can ache. Investing in desks and computer screens at appropriate heights is a simple way to eliminate this, as are good chairs;

Design work spaces around the way work is performed in those spaces. While some companies have opted for open office spaces, not all will opt for this design; and

Be aware that colour plays an important role. Green makes people feel refreshed. Red and blue are considered to have motivational qualities. Reds and oranges increase energy levels and yellows will induce happiness. In general, bright colours will boost both morale and productivity.