Hybrid space planning. As a space manager, how do you handle the challenges associated with these three words?
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Until recently, few of us had even uttered 'hybrid working' before.
Yet post-pandemic, hybrid space planning is something every university must get to grips with.
As a community, we’re here to figure out challenges together.
Which is why our resident space management expert, David Reanney, has penned these tips to help you tackle hybrid hassles, head on.
A tricky one, with staff now generally spending less time in the office. But beware attempting a one-size-fits-all approach, as needs will vary! Three things you can consider:
- Kick-start conversations with team leads, to help you establish new working patterns and work out whether you can increase your workspace planning ratio above 1:1.
- Follow the timetabling rule; plan for less than 100% utilisation to allow for variations in demand.
- Track how spaces are used over time too, so you can make the most of them in the future.
Here’s the scenario. In any given team, some staff opt to work in the office, some are keen to desk-share, and others prefer to drop in and use space on a first come, first served basis.
So how do you make sure they can all continue to work in close proximity?
A clear booking system is the answer to this one. Consider a ‘live’ system that lets staff easily locate and book space close to colleagues when they’re in. You may also want to think about breaking up large workspaces into ‘neighbourhoods’ that give teams a regular and consistent base to work from.
Making even small tweaks to space layouts and furniture can help staff work more comfortably from multiple spots.
Consider doing away with desk-based storage, in favour of bookable solutions such as lockers. Standing desks are also now popular with those hopping more regularly between locations. And ensure staff have access to both quiet, individual workspaces and those more suited for discussion and collaboration.
Discover even more tips over on our LinkedIn page.
Hybrid working policies and good practice are discussed as part of Space Management Basecamp Level 1. Developed in partnership with AUDE, the course also covers space management strategy, stakeholder negotiation and project management.
Head on over to our courses page to find out more - and have hybrid hassles nailed in no time!
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