Technology for happier workplace
By Darren Krakowiak
A happy workplace equates to happy employees, correct? While most firms would like to believe their employees appreciate the workspace environment provided, the reality is that frustrations are part of everyday life. In essence, workers are not as happy with their environment as most companies think.
Some of the challenges, such as a lack of parking spaces or gaining access easily to the office, take place prior to beginning work, while others occur during office hours and include difficulties with poor Wi-Fi connectivity and scheduling conference rooms for meetings, among others.
By recognizing and examining how new technology can help us to resolve common workplace frustrations, organizations can improve the overall employee experience and maintain a happier and more productive workforce. Technology can also increase the speed at which people can work, communicate and achieve their tasks.
In the Asia Pacific region, the Digital Age has been redefining how people work for some time. According to a CBRE Tech Survey, the top two major technologies impacting businesses and the workplace are smartphones and automation, while big data, cloud computing and artificial intelligence rounded off the top five. This impact will only grow as new technology becomes more accessible and affordable for application in office environments.
Our research has identified a number of challenges which employees experience on an everyday basis and instances of where technology can be used to make a difference.
In big cities, parking can be a source of contention, especially in large lots or in central business districts (CBDs) where space is at a premium. One solution being implemented by building owners is smart parking systems which use sensors to locate available spaces and allow mobile users to check for open slots prior to arrival.
To facilitate easy access, some companies are now using Bluetooth-enabled smartphones to allow employees to enter secure office areas. This alternative to badge or card-reading technology makes it easier on workers who find it cumbersome to carry cards.
As firms shift to a more activity-based work format in the office with unassigned workspaces to improve space efficiency and collaboration between teams, it helps to have intelligent way-finding tool technology to show which desks or spaces are available. Such mobile apps should be capable of quickly locating open spaces and booking space in advance.
Forward looking companies can also use virtual assistants and software programs to manage daily administrative tasks such as scheduling meetings, events and other appointments, and eliminate unnecessary emails and other low-value time consuming tasks.
Ensuring high-speed and quality connectively in the office is vital for a mobile workforce. To address these issues, some companies are introducing technologies such as Chromecast, which enables streaming of data wirelessly from mobile devices to other displays. Li-Fi _ a light-based signal which provides an internet connection 100 times faster than Wi-Fi _ is an option suitable for open plan workplaces.
Finally, a few organizations have empowered employees to control the surrounding temperature within reasonable limits via a mobile app connected to the building's air-conditioning systems. Having a more comfortable environment can lead to better productivity.
To be efficient, proactive and successful in the modern workplace, people in all professions should have access to the best and most suitable tools. By applying the latest workplace innovation and technology, employees will be able to perform their jobs more efficiently and enjoy a higher quality workplace environment.
Darren Krakowiak (Darren.Krakowiak@cbrekorea.com) is the managing director of CBRE Korea, the world's largest commercial real estate services and investment firm.