The vast majority of employees regard their office environment as an important
or very important contributor to their overall happiness and effectiveness at
work, according to a poll to mark National Good Office Week.
The
research by Ipsos Mori on behalf of The British Council for Offices (BCO) found
that 91% of office workers think their working environment directly affects
their overall happiness at work, with private space (cited by 22%), natural
light (18%) and peace and quiet (17%) all seen as important factors.
Perhaps more significant, though, is who employees sit next to, with 88%
saying that sitting next to someone they don’t like makes them less productive.
“Today’s office environments are driven by space, cost, innovative
design and brand values,” said Richard Kauntze, chief executive at the BCO. “It
is, however, essential that employers do not underestimate the basics. Peace and
quiet, natural light and even work colleagues have an impact on the productivity
of the office workforce.
“The research provides an in-depth insight into exactly what office workers
really want from their office space and environment,” he added. “Providing the
ideal work environment, where employees feel comfortable and motivated, will
ultimately improve productivity levels and consequently increase
profits.”
The BCO claims having a pleasant office design can improve
productivity by 25% and business performance by 20%, as well as having a
positive impact on staff retention and motivation.
