Being productive isn't as simple as being in front of a computer. Sometimes, we need to shift our routines to maximise how productive we can be. This means changing both how and where we work.
Changing how we work
In Australia, most cubicle warriors spend the majority of their time starting at a computer screen. Is this really the most productive way to work? Surely people were able to get things done before computers were invented?
Take a break from your screen
Sometimes, moving away from your computer can yield dividends. The next time you have a problem to solve, try going old school. Instead of brainstorming around a laptop, grab a big sheet of paper, a marker and go to town. Working in this way interrupts your day to day routine, and opens up new paths to creativity. Plus, as an added bonus, it's fun!
Another great way of getting creative is to hold a walking meeting.Walking meetings are not only great for your health but also improve your mood, stress levels and overall creativity.
Use technology efficiently
Even if you are holding the occasional walking meeting and computerless brainstorm, the odds are that you'll still probably have to use a computer at some point in your day to day life.
Most of us aren't using technology to it's fullest extent. For example, many common data entry tasks can be automated through programs like Zapier; Skype and similar video conferencing programs can be used to eliminate the need for a large portion of business travel, and programs like Google Docs mean organisations don't need to worry about backing up documents and ensure everyone has the most up to date files at all times.
Changing Where We Work
The other way we can start to get more productive in the workplace is to change the environment around us. The easiest way to do this is to switch up where we work.
The office is wherever you are
What do you need to work? For most of us, the answer is a phone and a computer. Just about everyone could do their work from wherever they feel like these days, but very few are allowed too.
Flexible working is fast becoming the norm, by the year 2025, over 15% of the workforce is expected to be working remotely. Employers need to embrace flexible and agile working, as it helps employees maximise the amount of time they are productive, whilst also making it easier to maintain work/life balance.
Bring Nature into the office
Biophilic design (bringing nature into the workplace) has been shown to increase cognition by 26% and reduce employee sick days by as much as 30% according to the Harvard Business Review. This can be through having access to natural light, having plants in the office or improving workplace air quality.
Find room to focus
While open plan offices are great for collaboration, they leave a lot to be desired for private or focused work. “For most professionals, they have both individual and collaborative work that they have to do and both require very different skills and levels of concentration,” says space strategist Stevie Toepke of Flourish Spaces. “And that is where a really well-designed space can make all the difference.”
Many workplaces are releasing this by providing spaces for focused work alongside spaces for collaborative work. These don’t have to be major and could be as simple as soundproofing to filter out excess noise and providing movable screens for privacy.
Tall Architects are experts at workplace design. Our design outcomes create spaces that promote flexibility and collaboration and cater to different working styles. Contact us today for your office fit out needs today.