| O.K., so I have some problems with my current space, but how do I determine my company's space requirements?
There are several ways to begin this process, often referred to as OS (Office Space Planning and Design). Some organizations begin internally and then bring in an architect or consultant later. Others start with an architect. And some simply don't go through any kind of OSPD process. (Some developers provide prospective tenants with an architect in the beginning stages of OSPD.)
Whether you begin internally or not, input from key management and other personnel is essential to effective OSPD Research indicates that office worker productivity increases when they have say in determining their space needs. But according to the Harris study, 67% of workers feet they have little or no say in the type of lighting they need, 66% feel they have little or no say in having a place to relax, and 58% report little or no say in the type of desk, storage and filing equipment they need.
A Herman Miller Research Corporation report called "The Office - A Facility Based On Change" found that "the failure to adopt physical facilities to changing circumstances is the most stubborn office problem."
The best way to approach OSPD is through the eyes of the various departments and people who make up your organization.
The basic steps in OSPD are:
- Determine the goal of total office operation
- Question individuals for space needs
- Study interconnection of office functions
- Prepare flow charts
- Prepare space analysis sheets
- Determine equipment needs.
» Back |
