As companies around the world gear up for a return to the office, they’re looking for ways to improve the workplace. The transition from remote work back to the office will be a difficult one to navigate. In order to make the transition easier for employees and keep them both happy and productive, many companies are looking at how they can improve their office environments.
These are five ways your organization can improve both safety and security at the office, as well as your employees’ experience as they shake off months of working from home.
#1 Introduce ID Cards
A system that keeps track of who should be in the office will help employees feel more comfortable with coming back. ID cards are a fast and affordable way to improve security and cut down on intrusions. They instantly make it easier to visually identify staff, visitors, and contractors, while they can also include more advanced features such as magnetic stripes or RFID proximity technology for contactless access.
When you print your own cards, you’ll want to search for ID card templates that provide the information you need for security and a professional, branded look for your business. Make sure the template includes:
- A photograph of the person
- Their name
- Other identifying information such as job position
- Watermarks or holographic security features
You can find ID card templates online, from the printer manufacturer, or on the ID software program you use to print and program the cards.
#2 Contact-Free Access
While vaccinations are being rolled out at a rapid pace, there’s no denying that COVID-19 has changed the way people see the world around them, especially high-touch zones like door handles. Organizations that introduce no-touch doorways will make employees feel much more at ease as they get back into the routine of the workplace.Office security staff can get their Security License from here if needed.
#3 Productivity Rooms
The open layout office has become a necessity for plenty of organizations, but there is a lot to be said for some peace and quiet sometimes. Investing in a space that offers one or two quiet rooms where employees can go to tackle difficult tasks privately and get away from the noise can help them stay on task and focus on their job. As everyone adjusts back to the office, some space where they can gain some privacy to work will be most welcome.
#4 Recreation and Socialization
That said, socializing with colleagues is also something that employees have missed dearly. Designated areas where employees can relax, socialize, and network can make the workplace feel exciting. Spaces like these have always been good for building team cohesion.
This is one of the features that people who have been working from home have missed most about the office, and improving these amenities can help get employees excited about coming back to the office.
#5 Better Lighting
Quality lighting makes an enormous difference in the quality of life of your employees. Try using these tips for better office lighting:
- Diffuse, ambient lighting rather than direct overhead lighting avoids creating too much glare or contrast.
- Task lighting is great for working on the computer or filing.
- Avoid lighting that will create glare on a computer screen.
- Natural light will boost employees’ moods.
A few office improvements can ease the transition away from work-from-home. Consider security, access, space for both individual work and socialization, and office lighting.
