Flex space: why your office is the key to boosting productivity

A Flexible Future: Embracing Remote Working and Flex Space

In today’s fast-paced world, the concept of a traditional office setting is rapidly evolving. Businesses are increasingly embracing the idea of remote working and flexible office spaces to boost productivity and employee engagement. This shift towards flexibility in the workplace is not new; it can be traced back to the innovative practices of leaders like Robert Kennedy at the US Department of Justice.

Kennedy’s approach, which included amenities like a gym on the roof and allowing employees to bring their dogs to the office, emphasized trust and flexibility. These measures had a significant impact on morale, highlighting the importance of empowering employees to use their time effectively and step away from their desks during the workday. The lesson is clear: flexibility and trust foster loyalty and engagement among employees.

Productivity is also greatly influenced by the ability to work remotely. Studies have shown that employees who have the option to work from different locations experience a boost in productivity. For example, research from HSBC revealed that nine out of ten employees believe that remote working enhances their productivity.

As we look towards the future, remote working is becoming increasingly popular. The traditional nine-to-five desk job is giving way to a more flexible, remote work environment. With the latest technology enabling seamless connectivity, employees can now work from various locations with ease. According to JLL’s Distraction or Disruption report, a significant percentage of employees work from different company premises on a regular basis.

The Rise of Flex Space

This shift towards flexibility is reshaping the real estate landscape. Businesses are adapting to accommodate flexible working patterns by providing access to coworking spaces, creating flexible incubator hubs, and redesigning existing workplaces for enhanced mobility and connectivity. The flex office space sector has seen exponential growth in recent years, with projections indicating that a significant portion of corporate portfolios will be flexible space by 2030.

Fostering Knowledge Flow

Flexible office spaces not only boost productivity but also encourage creativity and collaboration. Coworking environments facilitate the exchange of ideas and insights among employees from different companies, fostering a culture of innovation. Larger businesses benefit from internal coworking hubs that promote cross-departmental collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Furthermore, flexible working arrangements support diversity and inclusion in the workforce. By offering remote working options and flexible office spaces, businesses can create a more inclusive environment that accommodates diverse needs, such as returning parents re-entering the workforce.

Cultivating a Flexible Culture

Creating a flexible workspace is about empowering employees with choice. By providing a range of workspace options, businesses can give employees greater control over their workday and foster a culture of flexibility and inclusivity. This approach not only drives engagement but also attracts and retains top talent.

While there are challenges to implementing flexible working arrangements, with careful planning and consideration of technology and security measures, businesses can successfully embrace flexibility. Employees value choice, and by offering flex space options, businesses can enhance productivity and employee satisfaction. Embracing flexibility is not just an option—it’s a strategic advantage for modern businesses.

Tom Carroll is head of EMEA Corporate Research at JLL

Explore Further

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