THE average person spends a third of their lives in the office so it makes sense for employers to design the ideal working space. Studies have revealed that small changes like remote work and scheduled breaks have an effect on productivity, which leads to the company’s success.
Here are other things employers can do to keep a healthy and happy work force:
1. Green space
Having plants in the office is not just decorative; a study shows that a greener workplace results in a 26 percent boost in cognition and 30 percent fewer sickness-related absences. Most important, employees are 15 percent more effective in a plant-filled space. Just don’t forget to water them regularly!
2. Neighboring establishments
Employees who get frequent breaks tend to be more productive than those who spend most of their time at their desks. Having coffee shops, restaurants, and other leisure areas nearby help workers take a few minutes off to decompress and regroup. These short breaks are even found to spark creativity, which may help in dealing with mental block.
3. Nearby transport terminals
A study shows that the average Filipino spends 16 days a year stuck in traffic. This means wasted opportunities, time and money. That translates to about P100,000 in lost productivity. While it’s hard to quickly solve the problem of traffic in the Philippines, transport terminals within reach from offices can help cut on travel time.
4. Natural lighting
Poor lighting has been found to affect mood and the employee’s ability to focus. To remedy that, a good amount of natural light can increase the quality of life and productivity. It can also help with depression. If natural light is not possible, cool lighting may be able to boost work output.
5. Bike racks
Regular physical activity helps in faster learning, improved concentration, sharper memory and enhanced creativity. All these help employees become more efficient in the office. Some workers may not have the chance to maintain an exercise routine, but riding a bicycle to work can be an easy yet high-impact workout. Offices can support this by adding bike racks or gyms in the building.
6. Shower rooms
The average working citizen commutes to work on a daily basis whether via motorbike, public transportation or by foot. With our tropical climate, it is inevitable that some may find going to work unpleasant because of the discomfort caused by the heat. A space to freshen up, like shower rooms, makes workers’ travel more tolerable and boosts their motivation to report to work.
JEG Development Corp. (JDC) believes that a well-designed space is conducive for sustainability and wellness. Take for example the JEG Tower, the company’s ongoing project that will soon become the crowning jewel in the Cebu skyline. It is one of the few buildings in the city to be recognized with a pre-certified Silver rating by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, the most reliable green building rating system in the world. LEED buildings do not only save resources but also cost less to operate, and help boost employee productivity and retention.
To promote the ideal workspace, JDC developed JEG Tower with maximum views and natural lighting, green spaces, a roofdeck garden, bike racks, shower rooms and a gym. It is also within walking distance from establishments and transport terminals. All these serve to highlight JDC’s message of “Bringing Work to Life.”
JEG Tower is a collaboration between JDC One Acacia Corp., KMC Savills, Arcadis Philippines and Casas + Architects.