Maximising productivity is more than just a happy bonus. In an age when there’s more competition than ever before, a company’s productivity levels really can make all the difference between success and failure. After all, it’s much easier to get ahead when you’re squeezing as much output from your endeavours as possible.
Most business owners are aware that they should train the employees correctly, give them the right tools they need to work well, and identify — and remove — any obvious productivity-busters.
But there are also other, often overlooked factors that can damage workplace productivity, too. In this post, we’ll run through some of the most damaging, as well as outline some handy tips on what to do about them. Take all of the tips onboard, and you should experience a sizable productivity boost.
Natural Light v Artificial Light
From the outside, it’s easy to think, ‘natural light or artificial light, what’s the difference?’ But take a closer look, and you’ll quickly find that natural light really can make a big difference to an employee’s productivity levels. For instance, did you know that 47% of employees say they feel tired when they don’t have access to natural light? And that 43% say that it makes them gloomy?
A tired, gloomy workforce is not going to be as productive as a shiny, happy one. Work on increasing the amount of natural light in the workplace, and you should notice an improvement. If that’s not an option, and you can only use artificial lighting, then at least make sure that it’s the right kind of lighting. Having a flexible lighting system that allows you to switch between cold and warm lighting is recommended.
Storage and Organisation
Good storage and organisation are thought to be useful because they allow for easy access to the materials, documents, and tools that employees need to work effectively. And that, of course, is essential for productive working. But there’s another way that storage and organisation enhance productivity: it makes it easier to have a decluttered space and makes it easier for employees to get around, both of which can have a subtle but noticeable impact on productivity.
It’s more likely that employees will feel overwhelmed or distracted when working in a disorganised environment. Getting rid of items that are no longer needed (or putting them in an off-site storage unit) and installing Tufferman industrial shelving units to safely store necessary items can help create a minimalist, organised workspace that makes it easier for employees to get around. Once you’ve got organised, make sure it stays that way — identifying the actions that led to clutter accumulating in the first place can help prevent problems resurfacing in the future.
Seating Comfort
An employee could love their work, have plenty of natural light shining on them, and yet still struggle to be as productive as possible if they don’t have comfortable seating. Even the most dedicated employee will have to take plenty of breaks if they’re uncomfortable.
Investing in ergonomic furniture for your employees can be a game-changer for productivity. These chairs offer superior posture and comfort, making it easier for workers to sink into deeper levels of focus and concentration. There are even studies that show improved seating options can lead to enhanced employee morale and satisfaction, both of which can contribute to better productivity.
Not sure what type of furniture your employees need to work at their highest level? Ask them directly.
Workplace Noise
Most people are aware that working in an environment that’s overly noisy can impact productivity. But not everyone is aware that working in the opposite type of environment — a silent one — can also be just as damaging. While some people like working in silence, many people find it distracting when they’re working in silence around other people.
It’s best to create an ambiance that’s not too loud, not too quiet. Aiming for something akin to coffee shop levels of sound is best. That tends to hover around 70 decibels, which has been shown in studies to be the right level of noise for enhancing productivity without being distracting.
All-Business Office Spaces
When we say ‘all-business office spaces,’ what we mean is those offices that have been designed solely with business functionality in mind. For instance, think of those offices that have grey walls, grey chairs, grey desks, and little else.
Those types of workspaces aren’t bad, but they’re a little depressing — and that can harm workplace productivity. Studies have shown that brightening up the space with plants can help boost productivity by as much as 15%. Throw in the fact that they’re simply nice to look at, and the decision about whether to add them to your office becomes a no-brainer.
Looking for other ways to brighten up the workplace? Look at painting the walls a more interesting colour and adding your branding to the walls.
The Right Temperature
Finding the right temperature for your office is more important for productivity than you might think. After all, if it’s too cold, then your workers will find it hard to focus. If it’s too hot, then your employees will become sluggish. There’s no hard and fast rule about what the temperature in your office should be, but somewhere in the region of 21°C to 25°C is best for encouraging focus and productivity, though it can’t hurt to ask your employees.
The Choice of Snacks
Providing snacks in the office is a tried and tested method for boosting employee morale, which in turn should lead to an increase in productivity. However, keep in mind that the type of snacks that you provide will also impact productivity. Your workers might like to see donuts in the office kitchen, but they — as well as all other sugary snacks — can lead to a slump in productivity. The best snacks are ones that boost energy levels while also being tasty. For instance, protein or granola bars, mixed nuts, rice cakes (with toppings), or fresh fruit. Throw in plenty of water and coffee, and productivity will soar.
