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Drivers for Change: Agile Offices
Oct 1, 2024
Lauren Elliott, Director of Interior Design
ProSpeak

Agile planning is a popular workspace model that provides a flexible and adaptable layout design, while giving employees complete choice over their work setting. It is often applied in workspaces where the needs of occupants may evolve or where multi-functionality is desired. This model also lets occupants choose the work setting that is most appropriate for their workload that day. The model supports both in-person and hybrid work models, allows employees to choose the work setting that best supports the tasks at hand, reduces square footage by eliminating the number of dedicated workspaces, and provides accessible and intuitive technology throughout the office. 

Agile designs provide spaces for community, group and individual work. Community spaces focus on social gatherings and provide shared amenities. They can enrich the culture and provide spaces for employees to recharge throughout the workday. Group zones encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing. These areas can be set up with diverse seating types and help bridge the gap between in-person and remote staff. Individual areas allow employees to focus and keep their head down in a respected quiet zone. Unassigned workstations provide privacy as needed, where needed, while shared private offices and privacy pods offer flexible solutions to changing employee needs.

A global insurance organization adopted a “work how you want, where you want” policy with a desire to reduce its footprint and create a space that supports a hybrid work model. By selecting an agile plan, the company was able to provide variety and choice of work settings. Furthermore, the company was able to decrease its square footage needs by more than half while increasing the employee capacity served through in-office and remote environments.

If you’re considering an office remodel or build and want to determine if an agile plan is the right fit for your company, consider what impactful spaces your workforce needs.

Take advantage of surveys to collect staff feedback and understand employee needs. Conduct space utilization reviews to observe how space is used. Host a town hall to get all staff buy-in, provide an open forum and engage the team. 

Design Collaborative

Website: designcollaborative.com

Email: lelliott@designcollaborative.com

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IMG Insurance Management Group


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