22 February 2012
The provision of workspace that allows workers to socialise, learn and collaborate is more important than the provision of space for focusing on a specific job function, according to research conducted by Gensler.
Speaking at yesterday’s Workplace Futures conference in London, Gensler principal Krista Lindsay said that a study by the global consulting company had established that “top performing companies” were those that understood how social interactions in the workplace led to greater productivity.
Lindsay also pointed out two workplace trends that FMs should be aware of. In some firms, telepresence rooms, those dedicated to video conferencing, were more likely to be used as spare rooms for normal face to face meetings than their original purpose as a video conferencing facility.
“Telepresence rooms are fast turning into dinosaurs,” said Lindsay. “Conferencing is increasingly being conducted from desktop PCs and mobile devices.”
Second, the changing demographics of the workforce are leading to younger workers keener on flexible working than their older peers, plus a shift from process-orientated to knowledge-orientated management structures.
“The biggest issue for managers is how they manage people they don’t see every day,” said Lindsay. “For many managers, this will be a significant challenge.”
Other news for Wednesday, 22 February 2012
Schools agency snaps up senior Boots FM
CH&Co reshuffles two new chief exec positions
Focus on outputs key to future FM growth
Social interactions define good workplaces
Contracts round-up
Complete our survey to enter iPad draw
FM World launches 2012 Salary Survey
FM World Blog: Changing the mindset of an FM
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