Posts in category: News

We recently read a fantastic breakdown of hybrid work stats and what companies are planning in CBRE’s 2024 Americas Office Occupier Sentiment Survey. You can read the results in their entirety or stick with us to learn a few takeaways we found most helpful for decision-makers.  2024 Americas Office Occupier Sentiment Survey | CBRE (All graphs in this article come from the CBRE Survey Report.)  

In our synopsis of this report, we will cover how companies are responding to the following categories:  

• Office Attendance Policies and Mandates  

• Employer Expectations for Office Attendance vs. Actual Show-Up  

• Measurements of Workplace Effectiveness  

• Corporate Real Estate Technology Priorities  

• Most Desirable Amenities for Occupiers  

Office Attendance Policies and Mandates 

According to CBRE’s data, 80% of companies have a return-to-work policy in place. That means the majority of companies in the US prioritize having their employees in the office so much that 51% have mandated it. However, there is a discrepancy between the mandates, and how strictly companies enforce them. The first step to mandating a policy should be measuring whether or not it is being followed and only 45% of companies are reporting to be doing that. Additionally, only 17% of those policies are enforced.  

Employer Expectations for Office Attendance vs. Actual Show-Up   

As seen in this table, employers expect a higher in-office attendance rate than employees actually show up. While it is not a huge discrepancy, there is an expectation gap nonetheless.  

This communicates that companies want their employees in the office, but they are not willing to take harsh measures to ensure employees come in. In many cases, employers are in a stalemate position with their employees and at risk of losing talent if they enforce these mandates. The question remains, should companies adjust their policies to be consistent with what they are willing to enforce? Or, should they keep the policies in hopes the economy may influence employees to comply?   

Measurements of Workplace Effectiveness  

It all comes down to workplace effectiveness and how you measure that. When decision-makers are trying to make the best long-term decisions regarding their space, space utilization is understandably the key indicator. How many days employees are in the office directly corresponds to how well you use and manage the space. That is why 74% of companies measure how fully the spaces they provide are used. Harder to measure is employee engagement. Yet, 65% of businesses find these important hybrid work stats to track. Another easier statistic to measure is employee retention and/or attrition. If you are losing employees then your space is not effective for work. That is why 35% of companies prioritize this measurement. Unexpectedly, only 28% of companies measure workforce productivity to determine a space’s productivity. This can also be hard to ascertain because so much of the in-office work is naturally collaborative.   

No matter how you look at it, time in-office is always going to be important and decision-makers should work to create spaces that employees both want and need to be successful. 

Corporate Real Estate Technology Priorities  

Some of the most important tools that support well-functioning hybrid environments are technology tools. It is a well-known fact that to support a hybrid workplace, technology must play a major role. That is why 82% of companies are prioritizing the addition of enhanced video conferencing tools followed by room booking software and building and occupancy sensors. It stands to reason that the more you know about how your space is used, and create spaces your employees need when they are in the office, the more effective your workplace will be. 

Most Desirable Amenities for Occupiers  

In addition to technology that supports employees, there is also a laundry list of other amenities that employees want and employers could use to lure them back into the office. The top draws are easy and reliable transportation (preferably with parking available), food and shopping access, and access to environments that prioritize wellness. While some of these amenities depend on location, businesses can offer some of these things in their building. For example, they could provide a fitness facility, create a cafeteria, or improve their parking situation by buying a lot or subsidizing parking for employees. 

In conclusion, employers want to maximize the effectiveness of their real estate and that often looks like filling it with employees. However, with the discrepancy between employer expectations and employee show-up rates, they have some work to do. They can start by supporting employees when they are in the office with the spaces, technologies, and amenities they need to be productive. Over time, they may just see the positive shifts toward in-office attendance they have been hoping for. 

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Gaming at work can get a bad reputation — conjuring up images of laziness, isolation or distractions. But the Harvard Business Review, CNBC and the Hubspot Blog suggest it’s time to toss out those antiquated ideas and embrace the power of play. In three years, more than three billion people will be playing video games worldwide. And now some organizations are taking cues from universities and leveraging gaming to make work more productive, engaging and just plain fun.

“We often try to power through the day to get more work finished, which might not be as effective as planning short breaks to make time for an engaging activity, such as video games, that can help people recharge,” says Michael Rupp, co-author of Human Factors study on the impact of video games at work.

Creating gaming spaces and forming groups pulls people into the workplace — giving them a reason to show up for much needed connection even before or after work. A gaming community at Steelcase grew to nearly 200 global colleagues who connect to play video games and Esports (a team aptly named ‘Take a Seat’), as well as board games, trivia and jigsaw puzzles, connecting people virtually and in-person.

Work hard. Play hard.

Encouraging a little play at work helps to:

Create community: “You can’t make people be friends. The best you can do is provide the environment in which they do it,” says Robin Dunbar, author of “Friends” and University of Oxford professor emeritus. Friendships at work improve talent retention, and boost trust, engagement, creativity and collaboration. This is where an intentional gaming community can come into play (pun intended).

Allow for authenticity: “Games let us bring who we really are into the workplace,” says Charlie Hunt who along with Pasha Oudsema lead the Gaming Core Team at Steelcase. Hunt says the gaming community helps people feel seen by letting them express their passions outside of work.

Give our brains a break: “When work feels stressful, this space lets that weight lift. I see friends and I feel okay to take a mental break,” says Oudsema. Rupp’s study agrees: a short game break helped people reduce cognitive fatigue.

Build diverse teams: When it comes to games, identities like age, role or department don’t determine who can play. Diverse people come together based on finding joy, creating connections and networks that otherwise would not exist.

Develop key skills: Today’s gaming skills connect closely to what’s needed for success in the office. In person and distributed teammates collaborate, communicate, make quick decisions and figure out how to solve problems — sounds a lot like most days at work, right?

Here’s a few ideas to help start your gaming community.

• Find your gaming hub. Good ergonomic chairs, tiered seating and tables, and a comfy lounge give people lots of places to connect and game online or in person.
• Start with one game night. Don’t pressure yourself to build a community all at once.
• Have the right intention. Encourage departments and other employee resource groups to schedule a game break to build community through play.
• Offer puzzles and pixels. Survey employees and offer both digital and analog games that generate the most interest.
• Connect via chat. Consistent communication is the lifeblood of global gaming. A robust digital chat leads to a vibrant gaming community in person.

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When Jill Manlove and Whitney Bachman of Morgan Marie Design began their journey designing the new Dutch Bros office space, they knew this project would be special. Not just because of the brand—one known for its vibrant energy and community focus—but because of the philosophy, they bring to every design challenge: collaboration, communication, and a smooth process from concept to completion.

At the heart of this Mother-Daughter duo’s work is a belief that great design isn’t just about the final product, but also about the process. They are guides, leading their clients through the intricacies of design, construction, and implementation. A successful project is when everyone, from the principal to the contractor, walks away with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Building the Dutch Bros Vision

The new Dutch Bros office was designed to reflect the brand’s ethos: bold, energetic, and community-driven. But more than that, it had to serve the practical needs of a fast-growing company. So, the designers aimed to blend the high-energy, inviting feel of a Dutch Bros coffee stand with the functionality of a cutting-edge workspace.

Right from the start, they worked hand-in-hand with Dutch Bros leadership to understand their vision. The building would support group interactions on its first floor with a full kitchen, pool table, lounge, gathering space, conference room, and a couple of offices. Upstairs, they created privacy and control with plenty of private offices, small huddle rooms, and a large conference room. What emerged was a space designed to foster creativity and connection—large open spaces for collaboration, cozy corners for individual focus, and plenty of areas for relaxation and casual conversation. 

Accessing the Dutch Bros Color Pallet

Since Dutch Bros is such a recognizable brand, Jill and Whitney wanted to reflect the culture of the younger generation that works there. So, they worked on special requests like disco balls and LED signs. Additionally, they used the entire Dutch Bros color palette for inspiration with new color additions to broaden the sense of energy and interest. They worked diligently to find just the right palette to bring all of that color into each room through paint, furniture, and accents. The result was a welcoming environment that is fun, loud, and vibrant. 

“They wanted their culture embodied in their design but didn’t know how to get there. After we were done, our Dutch Bros contact said, ‘It just feels so us, yet so grown up and sophisticated.’ I think that surprised them.” -Whitney Bachman | Designer

Fortunately for Jill and Whitney, Dutch Bros fully trusted their expertise throughout the process. The designers could lean fully into their creative process, let loose, and do what they felt was the best direction for the space. 

Everybody Loves A Challenge

One of the most challenging spaces to design was the gathering room on the main level. Naturally, the space feels a bit like a garage because of its large garage door connecting to an open room meant to support multiple uses. The challenge came in making it feel purposeful and connected to the rest of the building. Jill and Whitney achieved that through paint colors, the addition of a plant wall with an LED sign, and modular furniture. 

However, their favorite space to design was the large conference room. They got to tie together so many of the brand’s colors in one space. Working with the Create Spaces team, they selected colorful and mobile chairs that supported the brand and functionality of the space. By selecting a fantastic wallpaper, that perfectly incorporated the color of the chairs and tables, they designed a cohesive and energetic space.

Morgan Marie Design Creates A Space That Feels Like Dutch Bros

When it was finally time to reveal the new office, it was everything Dutch Bros had hoped for. From the vibrant, inviting entryway to the sleek but welcoming workspaces, the new office is a place where employees can thrive. 

“Good design is being able to look at a blueprint and see something finished in your mind.” -Jill Manlove | Principal Designer

With the success of Dutch Bros under their belts, Jill and Whitney are eager to tackle more commercial spaces. While they design for both residential and commercial projects, their approach is the same. Being a good designer is more than great finishes. It is all about creating a seamless process that everyone involved enjoys. That is what Morgan Marie Design did for Dutch Bros, and what they hope to accomplish for many more clients to come.

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Oasis Academy in Fallon, Nevada is making a difference in its community by constructing a new high school campus. This public charter school opened its doors in August after a whirlwind of activity. The principal of the new state-of-the-art school, Rochelle Tisdale, tells us all about how the new school came to fruition and what it hopes to achieve in the near future.   

A Journey from Borrowing to Owning 

When Oasis Academy first opened its doors in 2011, the school operated out of a repurposed warehouse previously owned by Walmart. The building provided ample space for the school to build out all the classrooms they needed to hold their K-12 students. However, five years ago, the local community college opened one of its unused buildings for Oasis Academy to use for their high school students. This allowed the K-8 school to expand within its current space while the high schoolers enjoyed a separate campus.   

Unfortunately for Oasis, about two years ago, the community college received a grant to open a nursing program that required them to reclaim the building Oasis now used for its high school campus. So, the Oasis leadership team moved quickly to build a new high school in the two years they had to vacate the college’s space. Thanks to their fiscal responsibility and a grant from the William N. Pennington Foundation, Oasis constructed a brand new school in two years’ time.  

A Space Designed for Growth and Innovation  

The new Oasis Academy building spans 12,748 square feet and currently accommodates around 180 students, with plans to expand to 200 students in future phases. To provide the best education possible, Oasis keeps the class sizes between 24 and 26 students to preserve a personalized and close-knit learning environment.   

Safety and functionality were at the forefront of the design process. Classrooms feature windows strategically placed to offer natural light while maintaining privacy from the outside. Unique to this school, the building is designed to function similarly to a college campus in that teachers have dedicated offices rather than classrooms. Common areas and study carrels further enhance the collaborative learning atmosphere.  

As to the education students receive, Oasis is different than most public schools. They focus on preparing their student for the future by ensuring they leave high school with more than a high school education. 90% of the students graduate with either an associate degree or a certification in a career or technical training course thanks to their partnership with a local community college. By meeting with a school counselor weekly, 100% of students graduate, and many are work-ready whether they pursue further education or not.  

About 90% of our kids graduate with at least one associate degree. If they don’t get their associate’s degree, then we put them into a career and technical education course, like welding, or certified nursing assistant so they graduate with a Work Ready certificate.

Rochelle Tisdale | Principal

Flexible, Future-Ready Learning Spaces  

Regarding the design of the school, one of the standout features of the new building is its highly flexible furniture, selected with both current needs and future possibilities in mind. Partnering with the Create Spaces Reno team, the school chose furniture that is not only functional but also adaptable. Whiteboard surfaces and roller-equipped tables allow easy movement and reconfiguration, supporting a dynamic and engaging learning environment.  

The “Hangout” space where students eat and access their lockers has quickly become a favorite among students and staff alike. Designed with comfort and versatility in mind, this area offers various seating options, creating an inviting space for study, collaboration, and relaxation.  

The furniture allows for a lot of flexibility and movement. The teachers were very skeptical of it at first, but they like it now, because if they want to switch up the groups they have the kids move the furniture around. It has been quite nice. 

Rochelle Tisdale | Principal 

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future  

The new building has already made a significant impact on the educational experience at Oasis Academy. With better facilities and access to cutting-edge technology, students can now engage in more group projects and hands-on learning opportunities.   

With the successful completion of the new building, Oasis Academy stands poised to continue its legacy of educational excellence, equipped with the resources and vision to prepare and empower future generations. 

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Idaho Novus Classical Academy (INCA) is a new public charter school in the Eagle, Idaho foothills. Having opened its doors to K-6th graders for the first time in August, it is rapidly becoming a shining example of how to revitalize classical education in modern times. To learn more about this new school and its mission, we interviewed the Head of School, Dr. Vincent Kane. While Dr. Kane will be guiding the academy’s administration, he is also deeply involved in its day-to-day life. As the school leader, he sets the example of fostering a close-knit, engaged community.  

Watch the Case Study Video Here

A Grassroots Initiative with Strong Leadership  

The academy’s journey began about four years ago, sparked by a group of dedicated founding parents and community members. Among them was Mrs. Ruth David, whose grassroots efforts were instrumental in bringing the school to life. The school’s conception was made possible by a deep love for the American Experiment and dedication to raising up the next generation with those principles.  

Funding, Philanthropy, and A Thoughtful Approach to Growth  

As a public charter school, INCA receives funding similar to other public schools. However, the role of philanthropy has been crucial in its success. Major contributions from the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation and Bluum have provided significant financial support, enabling the school to achieve its ambitious goals.   

“As a public charter school, we don’t have access to the same financial resources that a district school would. We can’t bond or Levy, which means we have to spend operational funds on facility debt service. So, it is a much more responsible choice for a school like ours to open as a K-6 school, grow to K-9, and ultimately expand to K-12 at the right moment.”

Dr. Vincent Kane | Head of School at Idaho Novus Classical Academy

While there are plans to expand the school to eventually support a K-12 model, starting with only six grades ensures INCA can build capacity responsibly. Currently, the building can support up to ninth grade, so within four years, the school hopes to expand the building to support all twelve grades. Phase two will include building additional classrooms and amenities onto one end of the school as well as adding a gymnasium where there is currently open space next to the playground.  

Classical Education with a Mission  

While planning is critical for the future of the school, its mission is what will fill classrooms. The principles of classical education emphasize virtuous living, traditional learning, and civic responsibility. Students will learn about truth, justice, virtue, and beauty through classic stories. The Great Books, and even moral and political philosophy classes in high school. Every decision made at INCA, from financial strategies to curricular choices, is filtered through its mission-driven lens. The school aims to form future citizens who are knowledgeable and capable of thriving in a free republic. They are taught to uphold the ideals upon which the country was founded and continue the American experiment. Just as the school’s founders envisioned, INCA will be responsible for shaping the next generation of citizens. It will prepare them to be both virtuous and knowledgeable.  

“We recognize that students have been left a vast intellectual and cultural heritage and as a classical school, we want to immerse students in the best of what those traditions have to offer.”

Dr. Vincent Kane | Head of School at Idaho Novus Classical Academy

Small Class Sizes and the House System at Novus

With an initial enrollment of about 378 students, INCA is focused on maintaining small class sizes to enhance the learning experience. Kindergarten and first-grade do not exceed 18 students. Meanwhile, grades two and above have a maximum of 27 students per class. The school also features a unique house system. Students and faculty are sorted into five houses inspired by influential founding fathers. This system promotes friendly competition, mentorship, and community spirit, culminating in a house championship at the end of the year.  

Practical Use of Technology at Novus

While the academic program at INCA is low-tech, the operational side of the school is high-tech to ensure smooth functioning. The school has partnered with the Create Spaces Boise team, to design and install its low voltage systems essential for effective operations. This system provides an equal experience for both wireless and wired operators. Using dependable technology ensures INCA can support its academic mission without distracting from teacher-student interactions.  

A Bright Future Ahead  

As INCA grows, the school remains steadfast in its mission to provide a high-quality classical education. Dr. Kane’s leadership, combined with strong community support and careful planning, positions the school for long-term success. The integration of core values, small class sizes, and the innovative house system all contribute to a learning environment that prepares students to become well-rounded, virtuous citizens. INCA is not just a school. It is a community dedicated to forming the next generation intellectually and morally.  

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My kids like the show “Stranger Things.” It is an adventure/supernatural TV series set in the 80s that
follows a friend group. My kids like to ask me if things were really like that in the 80s. “Did kids just run around the neighborhood looking for things to do and adventures to have?” I tell them, “Yes, things were actually like that.” On weekends and throughout the summer we would leave the house in the morning looking for things to do and bouncing back and forth between the parks and friend’s houses all day long. “Wow,” my kids say. “That must have been amazing.”

I’ve been thinking about the office lately, and the changes we have seen in the past 20 years. Here are a few questions some younger employees might have about “the way it used to be”.

How the office used to be

Did employees really come into the office every day? Yes, before technology and the pandemic made remote working “a thing” nearly every employee worked every hour in the office.

Did cubicles used to be 10×10 sized with 8 ft. tall walls? Yes. At one point the larger cubicles and higher walls were coveted assets in the office.

Did employees used to smoke in the office? Haha, yes, you have to go back to the 60s but yes, there was a time when it was very normal for many employees to smoke right at their desks.

The office has changed a lot over time and keeps changing. I love being in the business of keeping on top of office furniture and technology trends. I guess it is almost as amazing as my childhood in the 80s running around the neighborhood with friends like it used to be.

Scott Galloway

President of Create Spaces

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Employee burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive stress. It’s characterized by feelings of cynicism, detachment, and reduced performance. When employees are burned out, it negatively impacts productivity, job satisfaction, and overall company morale.    

Causes of Employee Burnout 

• Overwhelming workload: Excessive tasks or unrealistic deadlines.    

• Lack of control: Employees feel like they have little autonomy in where they work and how they work. 

• Inadequate reward: Feeling undervalued or underappreciated. 

• Lack of support: Insufficient resources or a negative work environment.    

• Work-life imbalance: Difficulty separating work from personal life.    

Preventing Employee Burnout 

To combat burnout, businesses should prioritize employee well-being and implement strategies to create a healthier work environment.  

How Cultural Changes Can Reduce Employee Burnout:  

• Recognizing and rewarding employees for a job well done. 

• Promote time off, flexible work arrangements, and boundaries around disconnecting. 

• Employee development and trainings help employees grow and feel like they are improving in their roles. 

• Open communication with employees helps them feel heard and valued. Be willing to ask for their feedback on decisions. 

• Update job descriptions when necessary and ensure employees have manageable workloads. Set realistic expectations. 

How Physical Space Can Reduce Employee Burnout 

The physical workspace plays a crucial role in employee well-being and can significantly impact burnout levels. Here are some ways to design a space that promotes employee health and happiness:    

• Natural Light: Improve your employee’s exposure to natural light as much as possible. This improves mood, focus, and overall well-being by linking them with natural circadian rhythms.   

• Biophilic Design: Incorporate elements of nature, like plants and natural materials in your workplace to reduce stress and improve air quality.    

• Ergonomic Furniture: Provide ergonomic chairs, height adjustable desks, and other furniture to help prevent physical discomfort and reduce fatigue.    

• Acoustics: Minimizing noise distractions with sound-absorbing materials can improve concentration and reduce stress.  Providing focus rooms that are private and quiet is another great way to reduce stress while increasing productivity. 

Fostering Collaboration and Social Interaction 

• Flexible Spaces: Offering various workspaces, such as open areas, private offices, and collaboration zones, allows employees to choose the environment that best suits their task.    

• Breakout Areas: Providing designated areas for relaxation, socializing, and informal meetings can help employees recharge and connect.    

• Kitchen and Cafeteria: A well-equipped kitchen and cafeteria encourage social interaction and provide a space for employees to take breaks. Make this space work at maximum capacity by transforming it into a Work Cafe. 

Prioritizing Employee Well-being 

• Quiet Rooms: Creating quiet spaces for focused work or relaxation can help employees recharge and reduce stress.    

• Wellness Facilities: Offering amenities like gyms, meditation rooms, or shower facilities can promote physical and mental well-being. 

• Outdoor Spaces: Providing access to outdoor areas, such as balconies or patios, can improve mood and reduce stress. See our outdoor thought starters here. 

By investing in a well-designed and employee-centric workspace, businesses can create an environment that supports employee well-being and reduces the risk of burnout. While space can play a huge role in shaping the culture of an organization, taking steps to empower employees in their work is also tremendously important. Start with building a strong relationship with your employees, then create an environment that supports them. 

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The rise of remote and hybrid work combined with a changing economy has transformed how businesses operate, particularly regarding office space. With more employees working from home and the increasing popularity of hybrid work models, many companies are downsizing their office space to reduce costs and adapt to new work styles.  

General Trends in Office Downsizing 

1. Increased Remote Work: The shift towards remote work has allowed many companies to significantly reduce the need for traditional office space. Companies no longer need to maintain large offices for a workforce that primarily operates remotely. 

2. Hybrid Work Models: As businesses adopt hybrid work models, they require less office space per employee due to employees frequenting the office less. Many companies have moved to flexible work schedules where employees rotate between working from home and coming into the office. 

3. Cost Reduction: Downsizing office space can lead to substantial savings in rent, utilities, and maintenance. These savings are often redirected towards enhancing remote work capabilities or investing in collaborative technologies. 

4. Focus on Collaboration: Even as office space shrinks, there’s a growing emphasis on creating collaborative and flexible spaces. When employees do come into the office, they need spaces primed to support collaborative work. Businesses recognize this need and are beginning to shift toward creating spaces that foster teamwork and creativity. 

Strategies for Shrinking Square Footage 

As companies rethink their office space needs, several strategies have emerged: 

• Activity-Based Working: Providing different workspaces for various tasks, such as focus rooms, collaboration areas, and quiet zones, allows employees to choose the environment that best suits their needs. 

• Office Redesign: Optimizing existing space through layout changes and flexible furniture solutions can make a smaller office more functional and efficient. 

• Reservable Rooms: By using reservation technology, companies are making different spaces reservable ahead of time, or on the spot, for hybrid workers. That includes, desks, focus rooms, and collaboration spaces. 

Trends in Workplace Design 

As office spaces shrink, workplace design trends are evolving to meet new demands: 

• Increased Flexibility: There’s a growing preference for spaces that can adapt to various work styles and meeting formats. Multipurpose rooms are becoming more common and replacing traditional conference rooms. These new spaces allow for different types of activities in the same space. 

• Technology Integration: Modern office spaces often incorporate advanced technology for virtual meetings, presentations, and collaboration, making it easier for remote and in-office employees to work together. 

• Space Optimization: Companies are focused on maximizing space utilization. Multipurpose rooms, which can serve multiple functions, are a popular solution for achieving this goal. 

Data That Will Help You Plan Your Space Better 

To ensure that your office space is optimized, consider investing in workplace analytics to track the following: 

• Room Utilization: How often is each room booked and used? This data can help identify which spaces are most valuable and which are underutilized. If you discover a room is being underutilized, you can transform it into something that will better meet your organization’s needs. 

• Room Purpose: What types of meetings or activities occur in each room? Understanding how rooms are used can inform future design decisions. 

• Room Size and Amenities: What size and features are most popular? This information can guide investments in new furniture or technology. 

• Employee Satisfaction: How do employees rate the different types of rooms? Employee feedback is crucial for creating spaces that meet their needs. 

Benefits of Multipurpose Conference Rooms 

According to recent trends, multipurpose conference rooms are growing in demand. Compared to traditional conference rooms, they offer several advantages: 

• Cost Efficiency: These rooms require less space than having separate rooms for different purposes, leading to cost savings.  

• Improved Utilization: Multipurpose rooms can be used for various activities, reducing idle time and ensuring that the space is always in use. Now meetings, training, or brainstorming sessions can happen in the same place with equal support. 

• Enhanced Collaboration: Flexible spaces foster creativity and teamwork, making it easier for employees to collaborate effectively. 

Products Built for Collaboration 

Investing in the right tools and furniture can significantly enhance the functionality of a downsized office: 

• Microsoft Hub: This mobile screen allows you to connect with remote participants with one touch and move them around the room, making them feel more involved in the discussion. It is also perfect for presentations in various settings. 

• Flip Top Tables: These tables on casters can be easily moved or stowed away, providing flexibility in how a room is used. 

• Whiteboarding Solutions: Products like the Flex Markerboard or Amobi cart allow teams to brainstorm and collaborate, even in small spaces. 

Challenges and Considerations 

While downsizing office space offers many benefits, it also presents challenges: 

• Employee Satisfaction: Downsizing can impact employee morale if not managed carefully. Transparent communication and involving employees in the planning process can help mitigate negative effects. 

• Company Culture: Maintaining a strong company culture in a smaller, more dispersed workforce can be challenging. Companies need to invest in tools and practices that keep remote and in-office employees connected. 

• Technology: Investing in technology for remote collaboration and communication is essential to ensure that teams can work effectively regardless of their location. 

Conclusion 

As economies and work styles continue to evolve, businesses must adapt their office spaces to remain efficient and effective. Downsizing square footage in favor of hybrid models presents challenges, but by designing spaces that employees need and want, companies can create a productive and satisfying work environment. Utilizing workplace analytics, collaborative furniture, and advanced technology can help organizations optimize their office space and thrive in the new world of work. Just make sure to keep your employees in the loop along the way to achieve buy in and meet their needs. 

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In today’s work environment, many employees, whether in offices or working remotely, spend most of their day seated. While it might seem comfortable, prolonged sitting has become a significant health concern, contributing to issues like obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). These health risks not only impact individual well-being but also drive up healthcare costs and reduce productivity. Purchasing an ergonomic task chair could be a viable solution for many companies.

The Impact of Sedentary Work 

Prevalence of Sedentary Jobs: A large percentage of the workforce is now engaged in roles that require them to sit for most of the day. This sedentary lifestyle is a key contributor to a range of health problems, with back pain being one of the most common complaints. Studies have shown that prolonged sitting is associated with a higher risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and various musculoskeletal disorders. 

Health Risks: Prolonged sitting leads to muscle inactivity, which in turn can cause poor posture, stiffness, and a decrease in overall physical health. The lack of movement can slow down metabolism, contributing to weight gain and increasing the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Moreover, sitting for long periods puts strain on the spine, leading to back pain and other musculoskeletal issues. 

Economic Impact: The health issues associated with typical office jobs have significant economic implications. Employers face substantial costs related to healthcare, workers’ compensation, and lost productivity. Musculoskeletal disorders alone are responsible for billions of dollars in annual expenses, as employees require medical treatment, time off work, and in some cases, even surgery. 

The Role of Ergonomic Seating 

Reduced Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs): One of the most effective ways to mitigate the health risks associated with prolonged sitting is through ergonomic seating. Ergonomic task chairs are designed to support the natural curves of the spine, reduce strain on the lower back, and promote better posture. By providing proper support, these chairs can significantly reduce the incidence of back pain, neck pain, and other musculoskeletal disorders. 

Improved Productivity: Employees who are comfortable and pain-free are generally more productive. Ergonomic chairs help prevent discomfort and fatigue, allowing employees to focus on their work without being distracted by physical discomfort. Studies have shown that companies that invest in ergonomic furniture and train their employees how to use it, experience higher levels of productivity and lower rates of absenteeism. 

Increased Job Satisfaction: Ergonomic workstations contribute to higher job satisfaction and employee morale. When employees feel that their well-being is prioritized, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated at work. This, in turn, can lead to lower turnover rates and a more positive workplace culture. 

Proper Task Chair Ergonomics 

A properly adjusted task chair can significantly reduce discomfort and prevent injuries related to prolonged sitting. Here are the key elements of proper task chair ergonomics: 

Key Features of an Ergonomic Task Chair: 

• Adjustable height: Ensures your feet can rest flat on the floor or a footrest. 

• Lumbar support: Supports the natural curve of your lower back. 

• Adjustable armrests: Allow your arms to rest comfortably with your shoulders relaxed. 

• Seat depth adjustment: Prevents pressure on the backs of your knees. 

• Seat tilt: Allows for slight reclining to relieve pressure on the lower back. 

• Swivel: Enables easy movement around your workspace. 

• Casters: Allow smooth mobility. 

Proper Ergonomic Task Chair Adjustment: 

• Seat height: Adjust the seat so your feet are flat on the floor or a footrest, with your knees at a 90-degree angle. 

• Lumbar support: Position the lumbar support to fit the natural curve of your lower back. 

• Armrests: Adjust the armrests so your shoulders are relaxed and your upper arms hang naturally. 

• Seat depth: Adjust the seat so there’s about 2-3 inches of space between the edge of the seat and the back of your knees. 

• Seat tilt: Experiment with slight reclining to find a comfortable position that reduces pressure on your lower back. 

Download our ergonomic seating guide here.

Steelcase Ergonomic Task Chairs 

Steelcase offers a full line up of ergonomic task chairs. To help you find the task chair that is best suited for how you work, we have ranked three of our chairs on a scale of good, better, and best. The criteria are as follows:  

1. Active Sitting: which encourages movement and posture variation 

2. Smart Fit: Intuitive adjustments with appropriate range to accommodate diverse users and sizes 

3. Connection: Mechanism, back, seat, and arms work in unison to keep user supported while actively sitting 

Good, Better, Best: Based on these criteria, here are our results: 

Good: Steelcase Think Chair 

This chair is smart, simple, and sustainable. It is versatile for many environments with intuitive and automatic adjustments and a sustainable design. It performs well across each of the criteria categories. 

Better: Steelcase Leap Chair 

This pair provides a perfect fit with an exceptional range of adjustments. The Leap chair delivers full support for various body shapes and sizes. It possesses highly adjustable ergonomic support and excels in highly focused work environments. The Leap chair ranks a little higher than the think across each criteria. 

Best: Steelcase Gesture Chair 

The Gesture chair ranks the best across all categories and is the first of its kind to be designed specifically to support our interactions with today’s technologies. It excels in a highly mobile and collaborative work environment and is Steelcase’s greatest in ergonomic performance. 

Download our free Seating Thought Starter here. View it here.

Conclusion 

At the end of the day, the more employees move, the healthier they will be. By providing them with seating that moves with their bodies, organizations can help significantly improve their employees comfort and reduce their risk of musculoskeletal disorders associated with prolonged sitting. Investing in ergonomic task chairs is not just a matter of comfort—it’s a crucial step toward promoting employee health, productivity, and overall well-being in the workplace. 

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