At its core, technology exists to make things easier. We leverage software to do everything from managing executive meetings to scheduling routine office maintenance. But for many businesses, it can be deceptively easy to adopt workplace technology that accidentally goes against the grain of company culture. Rather than complementing the existing company values, a poor tech fit can ultimately leave businesses with a product they don’t use, or, at worst, can be a catalyst for frustration.
When sifting through available tech solutions, it’s important to take your people and their habits and processes into consideration — the goal is to improve on existing strengths without creating new hurdles. The good news is, today’s workplace problems have more available solutions than ever before, so common office challenges can be addressed in a way that works best for everyone. Here are the office pain points I hear most often, and my recommended steps for putting your best tech foot forward.
Problem 1: We Want to Optimize Our Office Space Without Spending More on Real Estate
The conundrum of office real estate is a tough one to solve, and something most organizations have wrestled with at one time or another. The balancing act lies in finding a design that maximizes space efficiency and employee comfort without leaning too far to either side.
In my experience, there are several ways to use the latest technology to do more with the space you have. You may want to start by collecting sensor data to see how your existing spaces are being used. Sensors that generate occupancy data can give stakeholders a clearer picture of which spaces are sitting idle at what times of day, and provide better visibility into how rooms are being used and by how many people.
A second option I’d suggest testing out is advanced desk booking and hot desking, solutions that work wonders when a competent software platform is in place to handle reservations, requests, and assignments for everyone involved in the chain. Offering employees increased choice in where they sit may turn up space solutions you hadn’t originally considered. And hot desking can easily lead into the rising trend of remote and flexible work solutions, where tech liberates your employees to log in from almost anywhere.
Whether you opt for sensors, hot desking, remote work, or a combination of all three, these tactics have real transformative potential in a space-cramped office — and the right software goes a long way to ensuring whatever solution you choose suits your company culture.