In the past, we've written about why more companies are seeking workplace optimization solutions, how to roll out creative workplace programs, and what research tells us about employees' views related to mobility trends and the workplace.  We know that the mobile workplace is here to stay, but we also recognize that change must be managed wisely.  In this edition, we address the inevitable challenges tied to workplace optimization.

Typical workplace changes involve reconfiguration of space, reduction of footprint, migration of workers to off-site locations, and the enhancement of image, retention, and the bottom-line.  These changes often cause anxiety among management and staff alike, and this often results in hesitancy and resistance.  To optimize your chances for success you need to anticipate and plan to address potential push-backs.

What are examples of workplace challenges?

• On the management side, senior staff may have entitlement issues, such as reluctance to give up their private or corner office in favor of a more collaborative, open work area.
• Managers may also fear they will lose control and compromise accountability if they have limited face-time with mobile workers.
• While some staff may welcome more mobility, others may resent having to give up office space, deal with privacy issues, and face disruptions in their work patterns.
• At the same time, other employees may become too mobile...i.e., they may spend inappropriate amounts of time out of the office.

How can we confront these issues? 

• Senior staff must be educated about the benefits of new workplace strategies and coached on how to manage mobile employees.
• C-suite and middle management must buy into the strategy from the get-go and work with the project team to communicate plans with staff at meetings and through information-sharing.
• Management should also provide staff with sufficient remote communication tools, such as laptops, cloud solutions, and video conferencing.
• To make the office more inviting when staff need to return, it's important to create comfortable areas for meeting and collaborating and providing ample space for personal storage.

Key to this process is being open-minded, patient, and flexible.  This involves plans to benchmark (learning from other companies), pilot, test, gather feedback, and adopt solutions that fit.

The results?  When executed properly, with the right Project Management team in place, the ROI will outweigh the challenges.  The next generation of offices will bring with it reduced costs, increased productivity, a more competitive advantage for hiring and retention, and even improved morale.  With the right plan, the evolution of the workplace can start to work for you today.

For more information on this topic, click here to read a related workplace study from CoreNet.

For a related article on workplace strategies, please click here.