People are working longer, so it makes sense to have a workplace where every generation feels welcome, happy and, as a result, productive.
As people are living longer and working later in life, four generations are sharing a workspace for the first time in history. With experiences and viewpoints that span seven decades, 15,500 employees that range from the Silent Generation to Generation Y were asked what, to them, is most important at work. Not surprisingly, the four disparate generations rarely agreed, but their answers did offer some insight into the ideal office of the future.
SIX METRICS THAT MATTER NOW
Representing three United States-based multinational companies in 40 countries, respondents weighed in on the importance of these workplace features:
WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS
Knoll Workplace Research suggests we will be seeing these trends in mainstream offices soon, if we haven’t already.
CHOICE
The office will provide features, technology and policies that enhance the freedom to decide how, where and when employees work. Training will center on using space and technology wisely.
EXPERIENCE
The workplace will shift from supporting function to creating an environment that embraces the social and emotional components of work.
INTEGRATED WORK
Spaces will support working in individual and group settings. The future office will have an active feel, with a constant flow of people in and out of the space.
DISPERSED SPACES
Easily accessible, multi-use spaces will be sprinkled throughout. Many offices already have something along this line: an open landscape with some offices, as well as formal and informal meeting areas.