Boost Productivity by Allowing Employees to Feel at Home at Their Desks

Sept. 18, 2009
New research suggests that work productivity and morale could be improved by giving employees the freedom to develop the look and feel of their own office environment.

The study showed that in comparison to colleagues working in a lean environment (i.e. a spare office with cleared desks), people empowered to develop aspects of their own workspace showed average increases of 27 percent in feelings of well-being and 32 percent in productivity.

Additionally, the findings suggest that the prevailing preference for “lean space,” which is typified by a uniform approach to design, generally leads to a heightened sense of alienation among employees, discomfort in the workplace and symptoms of sick-building syndrome.

The research was supported by Ambius, a provider of plants, replica foliage and flowers for commercial environments, and developed in partnership with the University of Exeter.

“The study findings squarely challenge modern methods of space management,” said Craig Knight, principal researcher and managing director of Prism at the University of Exeter. “In particular, it confronts head on the idea that employees perform more productively in a ‘lean’ space where displays of personally or socially meaningful artifacts are forbidden.”

The research also suggests that even considerate – and potentially expensive – office design will, on its own, fall short of contributing a full sense of identity with the host organization. Managerially imposed design, which enriches the working environment, resulted in productivity increases of over 15 percent when compared to a lean space. This is quite an improvement, but is markedly less than the gains achieved by office workers empowered to develop their own space.

"The simple approach of involving office workers in the design of their own surroundings proves to deliver the best levels of organizational identification, citizenship, well-being and productivity,” said Kenneth Freeman, international technical director at Ambius. “We advise businesses to factor in these findings when organizing work space and recruiting employees to help with design.”

About the Author

Laura Walter

Laura Walter was formerly senior editor of EHS Today. She is a subject matter expert in EHS compliance and government issues and has covered a variety of topics relating to occupational safety and health. Her writing has earned awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE), the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) and APEX Awards for Publication Excellence. Her debut novel, Body of Stars (Dutton) was published in 2021.

Sponsored Recommendations

Ensuring a Safer Workplace through a Comprehensive Contractor Qualification Framework

March 13, 2025
Avetta is a leader in contractor management, and with over 15 years of industry experience, we can help you establish a robust contractor pre-qualification program that aligns...

EQT Private Equity to Acquire Avetta from WCAS

March 13, 2025
EQT commits to supporting Avetta in its ongoing growth and innovation journey.

Guide to OSHA Workplace Lighting Requirements

March 13, 2025
Learn OSHA workplace lighting requirements to enhance safety, productivity, and quality. Discover standards, compliance benefits, and risks of non-compliance.

What is the difference between Tier 1, 2, and 3 suppliers and why do they matter?

March 13, 2025
From raw materials to final products, each supplier tier poses risks and liabilities that can impact your organization. Avetta's supply chain management software offers peace ...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!