20 June 2014
An alleged correlation between office workers' levels of optimism and their access at work to natural light in informal, dynamic spaces has been identified in newly released research.
A survey of more than 800 office workers was carried out recently by market researcher IPSOS on behalf of furniture manufacturer Steelcase. It suggests that more natural light, better temperature control and more informal areas / better use of office space are the three things most likely to improve their working lives.
"Working in a fast, complex, technology-dominated world has meant that the environment people work in has become so much more important to them," says Jacqui Withnell, business development director of Steelcase Solutions.
Separate research carried out by Steelcase, the parent company of Steelcase Solutions, recently identified 'six dimensions' for organisations to consider when planning for wellbeing within the workplace:
- Optimism (allowing choice, personalisation and control);
- Mindfulness (offering calming places that encourage interaction);
- Authenticity (creating informal, non-restrictive environments);
- Belonging (welcoming and well-equipped spaces);
- Meaning (aligning workers with a vision through space); and
- Vitality (supporting active, healthy lifestyles with movement and visibility).
Withnell said: "Businesses which strive to make their employees feel at home are seeing real differences in productivity and at the same time the employees' sense of satisfaction is much greater. In terms of design, a space which allows free movement and a choice of posture means that workers can feel a sense of familiarity and belonging which is also vital for creative and optimistic work."