Smart Workplace: Top 5 Benefits
Have you ever heard the phrase – “Work Smart, Not Hard”? Smart working has transformed the infrastructure of modern workplaces. A smart workplace is an organisational model that uses technology to enhance the social, collaborative and analytical capabilities of the employees. It’s about making the traditional infrastructure more employee-friendly with an eye towards productivity. Before we delve into the benefits of smart workplaces, let’s catch a glimpse of its key features.
Smart Workplace: 4 Key Features
In the latest research report, the market size of smart offices is projected to hit a whopping $57.05 B by 2025. But what are the key features of smart workplaces? Let’s see.
#1 Smart Temperature Control
A smart workplace goes beyond conventional temperature control systems. They integrate sensors to collect data on room temperature, occupancy rates, humidity, airflow, time of day etc. Further, they use data analytics to optimise the temperature and lighting as per the employee’s preference and comfort.
#2 Smarter Collaboration
Next is smarter and more flexible collaboration amongst your team. As you would know, the COVID-19 pandemic has revamped the way we meet. With the advent of virtual meetings, companies are increasingly adopting high-quality video conferencing solutions. Moreover, cloud storage platforms encourage the remote sharing, co-editing and hassle-free storage of documentation accessible to your team. In essence, smart workplaces feature an even smarter workplace collaboration enhancing flexibility and productivity.
#3 Indoor Mapping and Desk Booking
Ever heard of indoor mapping? Employees can access the office maps and locate over/under-occupied rooms, colleague rooms, meeting rooms etc. You don’t have to go up and down in an elevator searching for the room (such a relief!). Room or desk booking systems further complement indoor mapping. Based on the vacancy, employees can reserve tables, meeting rooms etc. as per their needs. This promotes flexibility and optimal resource utilisation.
#4 Smarter and Ergonomic Furniture
The fourth feature is just next level. You can opt for ergonomic desks at your workplace which can be adjusted for a proper posture. Employees can customise the way they sit and improve their physical well-being. An icing on the cake? Well, it’s the inbuilt health-tracking feature. Imagine a chair that can not only adjust itself but also monitor your sitting habits. Fascinating, isn’t it?
Now that we’re done with the features, let’s hop on to the benefits of smart workplaces. Buckle up!
Top 5 Benefits of a Smart Workplace
#1 Boost Productivity With Smart Workplace
The primary benefit of smart working is enhanced productivity. Advanced technologies like IoT, AI and Cloud create a dynamic environment for the employees to thrive in. For instance, smart scheduling uses AI and automation to create workflows saving time. Moreover, cloud-sharing platforms, virtual meeting apps, and digital project management systems break all communication barriers driving productivity.
#2 Induce Agility in a Smarter Workplace
Workplace agility is all about employees working smarter and effortlessly. In other words, agile employees exhibit quick adaptability as per the changing work needs. Workplaces can be agile too. How? Well, smart workplaces are responsive to change as you can make quick and informed decisions using business intelligence tools and data analytics.
#3 Care for Your Employees With a Smart Infrastructure
Employee well-being is at the heart of a smart workplace design. For instance, smart lighting systems adjust the room lighting based on the time of day, occupancy rates etc. reducing eye strain. Moreover, ergonomic furniture provides for physical comfort boosting productivity. You can go a step further and adopt fitness-tracking apps, mental health support platforms and other wellness programs. A happier and healthier workplace will lead to enhanced productivity, engagement and job satisfaction.
#4 Attract Top-Tier Talent to Your Company
Smart workplaces not only retain existing employees but also help attract new ones. Young candidates gravitate towards innovation in the workplace. With efficient software solutions and smart working strategies, you can enhance employee experience and show the prospects that you care for them. The adoption of collaborative tools like video conferencing systems, cloud apps etc. aligns with the remote working preference of the workforce. Therefore, a smart workplace can attract top-tier talent with its forward-looking culture.
#5 Be Energy Efficient With Smart Working Solutions
Finally, you can save energy with a smart workplace. Smart Building Management Systems (BMS) can optimise energy consumption, lighting, and climate control. Remember our discussion on intelligent temperature control systems? These solutions help adjust lighting and temperature based on occupancy rates, time of day etc., saving energy and utility bills. Wait there’s more! You can also optimise waste management at your workplace through recycling initiatives. The benefits don’t end here. Sustainable commuting and green HR among others are the environmentally conscious practices that you can adopt for a smarter workplace.
In this blog, we took you through the solid features and benefits of smart workplaces. With the incorporation of technologies like AI, data analytics, and BMS among others, modern workplaces are becoming more employee-centric. If you have any other queries, drop me a line.
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