10 February 2015
A 3-month online project set to explore "the evolution of the workplace" has been launched by the BIFM and the professional HR body, the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).
The project, named 'the Workplace Conversation' will examine the evolution of the working environment and what the future of the workplace may look like.
The project will explore topics such as the emergence of new technologies, economic forces and flexible working alternatives, and their impact on business performance and the way people work.
It seeks to engage in a 3-month online conversation "which will draw insights, ideas and practical solutions from individuals across a range of countries".
Participants will be set specific tasks throughout the duration of the project including submitting ideas for creating better workplaces in the future, one of which will be voted as the best.
FM and HR professionals, and anyone with an interest in the future of the workplace, can participate in the initiative, according to the BIFM.
Gareth Tancred, CEO of BIFM launching the project at the annual Workplace Futures Conference 2015, said: "We've spent a number of months working with the CIPD, planning and putting the framework in place to deliver this ambitious initiative."
He added: "Whilst there has been plenty written about the changing nature of the workplace, we're keen to hear from those at the frontline of having to manage the types of changes we're experiencing, in order to help shape the discussion....This is a crowd-led initiative and we look forward to seeing a host of great ideas and thoughts contributed from a wide range of FM and HR professionals."
Peter Cheese, Chief Executive of the CIPD, said: "Workplaces have incredible potential to both influence and reflect corporate cultures, behaviours and working styles but it takes teams from across the business to create the right kind of workplace...The Workplace Conversation is a great opportunity to bring FM and HR professionals together to understand and influence how workplace design can positively affect engagement and productivity while reinforcing corporate values and culture."
This project is the first of a number of research initiatives between BIFM and the CIPD which will assess how FM and HR professionals are adapting to the changing nature of work.
Visit www.workplaceconversation.com to register and post your thoughts and ideas.