It’s not exactly “build it and they will come” – but a great office design goes a long way towards helping you keep your employees longer. How loud is your office? Is there enough light? Are things well maintained? What’s your bathroom situation? The answers to all of these questions and more can make the difference between keeping your employees and losing them. Here are eight factors to consider before your next office renovation:

1. Office Temperature

Shivering and efficiency just don’t go together. But it doesn’t help to be overheated either. An efficient HVAC system is key for employee comfort.

If you find it hard to please everyone, make use of fans and space heaters.

2. Air Quality

Include air filter replacements in your regular office maintenance and have your air ducts cleaned every 3 – 5 years.
Keep an eye on humidity levels, dampness can cause mold, but air that is too dry can be uncomfortable too.

3. Ergonomics

It’s easier to focus on that important report if an aching back isn’t claiming your attention. Appropriate office furniture is a must.

4. Office Noise Level

While 70 decibels is an acceptable level for ‘simple’ office work, some experts feel that 55 decibels or less is needed for intellectual and creative work. Make it easy for your employees to concentrate by addressing this issue. Hang sound dampening panels or wall treatments, or add carpet and area rugs.

5. Lighting

Nothing beats natural light, but even with plenty of windows there are days when artificial light is needed. LED lights are an economical option for an office, as they use less energy than fluorescents, bulbs last longer, and they can be dimmed. Daylight bulbs with a color temperature of 5000K or higher are probably the closest you’ll get to natural light.

6. Privacy

Open offices are great for teamwork and collaboration, but breakout rooms and spaces are appreciated by staff for small group discussions. A corner or two for when people need to be alone is helpful too.

7. Restrooms

Well-maintained, clean bathrooms might not be a reason for choosing your workplace, but dirty, badly kept ones will certainly repel employees.

8. Safety

This is, of course, a necessity. Safety policies and programs should be in place and care should be taken to conform to all government standards.

The Society for Human Resource Management, (SHRM) predicts that on average it costs a business 6 to 9 months’ salary to replace an employee.

Your office design speaks volumes about your company.
Make it worthwhile for your employees to stay. It’s a win-win situation!

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