The Edge - Volume One

DEFINING WORKPLACE CULTURE

to curate a more engaging and seamless experience for staff and extending benefits and amenities that would normally be reserved for corporate headquarter locations to non-headquarter employees. By employing sensor-based technologies, we give real estate service providers unprecedented insight and data analytics, enabling them to fine-tune the overall building experience. In the near future, employees’ psychometric and physiological profiles will be captured in a personal key that will communicate

Cutting-edge research on workplace experience takes the same level of analysis that companies have traditionally applied to their customers’ experiences, but turns the focus onto staff. Leading companies are using the principles and practices of user experience design, traditionally used in the development of technology and software products, to enhance workplace satisfaction through improved usability, accessibility and pleasure.

To meet ever-rising employee expectations, companies must rethink the drivers of workplace experience – from the physical environment and amenities to digital services and virtual workspace. Technology companies are renowned for their focus on delivering great experiences at work. A healthy mix of on- site baristas who remember your name, themed building designs, workplace concierges and massage chairs are designed to give staff a personal experience every day.

Significant efforts have been made to remove the friction in workplace environments and to increase availability and choices of food, drinks, workspace format or downtime space that employees truly value. Additionally, building and strengthening a community within offices has become a priority for workplaces as internal and external event programs aim to drive organizational loyalty and reinforce business culture. Companies facing a war for talent and increasing competition across all sectors are seeking to understand how the built environment can provide a competitive advantage. A positive workplace experience and culture is a strong hiring tool, and ensuring employees are happy at work has been proven to boost productivity.

with smart buildings’ learning algorithms – enhancing the office experience by delivering tailormade services and nudges to its users. Technology can also pose risks. Like most business ventures, integrating new technology in the workplace requires strategic direction and guidance. Off-the-shelf apps risk confusing and over-complicating the user experience, and possibly even delivering a negative one. Trust also comes into play when considering any kind of sensor deployment. (Refer to the article “Privacy, please” on page 44 for more information.)

SHAPING SMART SPACES

Technology is proving to be the quickest gateway for integrating

experiences in the built environment. Apps are becoming increasingly popular across professions and industries as they help staff locate a desk, book a meeting room, order lunch or have their dry cleaning delivered. Cushman & Wakefield’s Workplace Edge does just that – empowering employers

24 THE EDGE

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