WHAT IS THE NEW NORMAL FOR THE POST-COVID WORKPLACE?

With lockdown easing in the UK, the focus is now on developing the 'new normal’ for our workplaces. Initially we need develop a secure environment that gives staff the confidence to return to a somewhat ‘normal’ working life again.

After months of kitchen top desks and virtual meetings, what is the new normal for working environments in the post-covid world?

Business leaders have big decisions ahead to construct their ‘new normal’ for their workforce. However we are in completely uncharted territory so who knows if these decisions are correct?

During lockdown businesses have had to adopt new ways of working. Now new strategies are needed to provide new measures for a safe return to work and the long-term needs of the workplace. This is a perfect opportunity to take the time to review and plan ways to tailor and consider how to make the workplace work smarter for you.

Some argue that the office could quickly return back to business as usual, while others argue that the crisis will create a very different new normal for the workplace. One thing that is guaranteed is that the workplace will need to change.

As a result of the pandemic businesses are now reassessing the purpose and value of the office. They are freshly aware of the benefits of having their teams together but also that there is benefit in staff having space to focus. Many are realising the value of a good office design in enabling your team to do their best work. 

WHAT ARE THE KEY POINTS TO CONSIDER?

Ultimately, your “new normal” needs to be completely tailored to your needs and space capacity. Here are some key points to consider:

• Do you have the space to accommodate employees with social distancing in place?
• Will you have to put in place shift working or flexible remote working?
• Have you identified and responded to risks in the workplace?
• Will you need personal protective equipment or screening?
• How can you get more value out of our office space?

What should your workplace and workstyle strategy be in the future?

HOW CAN SPECTRUM WORKPLACE HELP YOU DEVELOP YOUR 'NEW NORMAL'?

In recent months we have been using our office design expertise to provide workplace consultancy. We help our clients discover what their workplace should really be like. We will work closely with you to create a detailed design brief which can be used as a sound starting point for any future changes to your workplace or way of working.

It is key to carefully make decisions based on sound evidence to maintain staff morale and to protect the organisation. By investing some time and money into a solid workplace consultancy process you can ensure that any initiatives for your ‘new normal’ are going to be successful.