A workplace strategy should always be an important aspect of work environment.
Previously, the business and work environment was only familiar with the traditional physical method of working, coming to work daily, and then leaving when its closing hours.
In 2020, a major upset to this already established tradition began with the pandemic and people having to either work from home (remotely), or work from home and office (hybrid).
With these changes happening and some companies still functioning well, the question of whether a physical workplace is really important arose. However, this change has not destroyed anything, it has only helped companies see how to justify their purpose with a plan, which is why a well-defined workplace strategy is important.
What is a workplace strategy?
Dan Boram, Forbes Business Council Member and CEO at AURA, describes a workplace strategy as a “systematic evaluation of how the workplace is being used to optimize a company’s effectiveness and efficiency.” With a well-designed workplace strategy, companies can improve their output when they improve collaboration and teamwork. With increased collaboration, absenteeism is prevented, and top industry talents are attracted.
Just like the pandemic has made us realize the importance of having a well-planned workplace strategy, it has also pointed out that firms can survive and thrive when they adapt their workspace to support these changes. Here are three suggestions for developing a workplace strategy that works for your organization.
1. Have a business and people strategy
Having a business plan and strategy might not work until there is a space for the people in your company.
Integrating your business visions with people and research, creating a suitable workplace becomes easier.
Workplace strategies that include both people and business at the center of the project have better chances of removing inefficiencies and streamlining operations.
This action is reflected in a 2021 report by the International Labour Organization to discuss leading businesses in times of Covid crisis.
The report noted that during the pandemic, 8% of businesses renovated and adapted their service delivery. In clear terms, adapting and renovating will not be possible without a merger of business and people strategies.
2. Allow data to inform your strategy
A new addition to the concept of workplace strategy is workplace strategy technology. It uses a scientific approach to determine how the workspace can create better teams. With this introduction, it is advisable to make data-driven decisions.
As a director or HR manager, you will be able to make better-informed workplace decisions after you assess your team and categorize them based on their work styles.
Find an analytical tool that can help you better understand the needs of your employees. ChartHop and Microsoft Power BI are examples of analytical tools you can use.
3. Include a plan
The Covid-19 pandemic is an example of why it is important to plan for the future.
Once you have the necessary data to plan for your current workplace needs, align it with your people and business strategies to improve your workplace needs.
By gathering data from your team every eight to 12 months, and anticipating growth and events, you can better predict and at the same time prepare for what the future holds for your workplace strategy.
