Smithfield Works is the latest addition to the Smithfield development. As Stoke’s first purpose-built flexible workspace, it is an exciting development for the region. Before we move on to explain why it is so exciting, you might want to familiarise yourself with Smithfield Works by reading our previous blog!
What is a flexible workspace?
Flexible working describes any working pattern that differs from the traditional office hours or locations. Focussing primarily on locations, this could mean working from different spots in the same office or building (as well as from home), as opposed to always being stationed at the same desk. A flexible workspace is somewhere that facilitates this and with it comes many benefits, both for individual employees and the company as a whole.
Improved productivity and collaboration
As a flexible workspace, Smithfield Works has a mix of shared office space, hot desking facilities, private workspaces and communal breakout space. This enables tenants to work in a way that suits the unique and changing requirements of their business. By giving employees the option to use the workspace most appropriate for the particular task they’re doing, flexible workspaces remove many of the barriers to productivity and collaboration presented by a traditional, one-desk-fits-all, model.
A well-designed flexible workspace, like Smithfield Works, enhances productivity and collaboration amongst its tenants. Businesses might utilise an office’s common areas where teams can spontaneously come together and collaborate, as well as quiet zones where individuals can go and focus individually.
When workers have an office layout that fosters creativity and responds to their changing needs – be that over the course of a project or a day – it becomes easier for them to meet objectives.
Adaptability = cost reduction
For business owners, flexible workspaces are especially useful because they’re adaptable. As a result of the uncertainty caused by the pandemic, business owners have become more sceptical about committing to contracts to rent/buy offices. However, with flexible workspaces, businesses can simply adapt their required office size to suit the number of employees coming into the office. The occupancy of flexible workspaces can also be maximised by sharing the space with another or multiple companies, subsequently helping to reduce the cost of the lease.
So, what’s not to like about flexible workspaces?
These modern spaces provide their tenants with the facilities to work efficiently on their terms, whether that be collaborative or individual. Flexible workspaces’ versatility is what makes them special, giving people the choice to work the way they want to. Businesses working out of flexible workspaces not only see a boost in their employees’ productivity and save financial fears amidst the uncertainty of current life, but also see an overall boost in office morale.
If you’re a Stoke-based business, why not consider a move to the city’s brand new and only state-of-the-art flexible workspace, Smithfield Works?
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