Flow Office design working environments that can meet changing working practices. We understand just how big a headache creating a new office can be. But we also understand that trying to implement new working practices in a space that is not designed for them creates all kinds of ongoing problems and challenges. Ultimately, it can even begin to impact your company’s bottom line.
The Covid-19 pandemic has speeded up the longstanding trend toward more hybrid ways of working. At Flow Office, we’re working with old and new clients to ensure that their workplaces are fit-for-purpose as the hybrid trend becomes mainstream.
What is hybrid working?
Hybrid working is a way of working that combines time spent in the office with time working remotely. It’s a flexible way of working that can evolve and adapt to meet the changing requirements of the company and individual employees.
Someone may work from home most of the time and only come into the office to use space to conduct meetings or to work together on a shared project. This might be a regular timetabled session a weekly basis, or it may be as and when required.
Other members of staff, particularly those at a more junior level, may spend more or even all of their time, in the office shifting towards more flexible patterns as their careers and lives develop.
What does it mean for office design?
Whereas offices were once designed on the presumption that there would be a permanent number of employees using the space, they now have to reflect a changing, more fluid scenario. This means they require less permanent space and a more flexible layout and office furniture set-up.
Wi-fi-enabled spaces should easily allow for connecting with staff who are working from home. This might include meeting rooms where remote team members and staff in the office should be able to meet to discuss projects in a seamless way.
Meeting rooms and private spaces can operate on a booking system which everyone has access to remotely. Staff members can book out the most appropriate space for their needs online before travelling into the office. Office furniture should also be configurable and easy to move around to suit shifting needs.
When implemented intelligently, hybrid working can use space more efficiently which ultimately means that work doesn’t suffer.
The office as a social anchor
With hybrid working, the role of the office is to be a social anchor connecting people who work remotely and on-site. It should help to foster company culture and shared goals. Remote workers can feel atomised and isolated, so ensuring they’re connected both digitally and physically to the central office is important.
Even if staff are not in the office very often they should feel that they can use the office space and that it supports their working life. The office is the place where different remote workers can get together, work and socialise. You just need a space that facilitates this in the best possible way.
Flow Office are the hybrid working specialists
If your company is moving towards a permanent hybrid model of working, then Flow Office can help. Our intelligent design service can help maximise your space while ensuring that you have all the furniture you need to create a flexible, functional and attractive working environment that meets your evolving needs.