What is ABW – Activity-Based Workspace?
ABW – Activity-Based Workspace is one type of office layout with no constraints on working space. Employees can work from anywhere as task demands which makes this layout fascinating. In this workspace layout strategy, every space has a particular name and specific purpose. Providing ABW is the USP for companies. These days companies tend to adopt a flexible and employee-centric approach when working on the office interior design to enhance employees’ experience.
The main principle of ABW is to conceive a work atmosphere that uniquely serves the needs of the type of work. Creating a desirable work atmosphere is crucial for business development and employee performance. Do they enjoy playrooms to switch off their brains for some time? Do they desire quiet space to reflect on creative ideas? Are there more collaborative spaces or meeting rooms they ask for? Do they have enough equipment and tools to perform their jobs?
Careful inspection of the employee feedback and answers to all these above questions can help you design the ABW layout even better.
Now you know what is ABW, it’s time to analyze the challenges you can face while designing ABW – Activity Based Workspace layout.
Here are the following main points which we will discuss as below.
- Challenges of ABW – Activity-Based Workspace Layout
- Acceptance of ABW mindset
- Organized Workspace Management
- Compromised Privacy
- Conclusion
Challenges of ABW – Activity-Based Workspace Layout
Acceptance of ABW mindset
Be it employers or employees if your mindset has not yet shifted from traditional office space, it means nothing. There are odd chances of having employees who are comfortable with the single assigned desk placed with their personal belongings and the chair they have been using for a long time. So, changing the mindset can be a challenge. You can overcome these challenges by taking feedback and suggestions while convincing them how ABW can benefit your business as well as their performance.
Organized Workspace Management
Imagine you need quiet space for work but somehow it is previously occupied, the frustration it hits is unbearable affecting your productivity. How can this issue be resolved? There is a solution for the workspace management system. In this system, you can see whether a particular space is available now or when it will be available and you can book accordingly. If no space is available employees can find another solution without being frustrated.
Compromised Privacy
Because of the open space layout, there are high chances of high noise levels that can compromise privacy, concentration, and disturbance in communication. Yet, with acoustic office furniture, it is possible to eliminate these challenges and pursue ABW for your office space design.
In Conclusion
ABW – Activity-Based Workspace has gained tremendous popularity among the masses in the last few years. There is no doubt that it is one of the most demanded office interior layout types which is justified because of the flexibility and ambience it offers. With all its pros there are some challenges in designing ABW but these challenges will not create much trouble with organized planning and careful implementation of the plan.