HOK’s Workplace group has just released their annual report which explores a crucial issue in workplace and interior design. “HOK Forward: Tech Workplace Takes Center Stage” investigates the distinct threats and challenges facing the tech sector and how these same challenges are affecting all companies, regardless of the industry in which they operate.
The 83-page report explores the myriad challenges and opportunities facing the tech sector, from the shrinking talent pool and evolving regulatory environment to privacy and data security and the growing exodus from Silicon Valley.
Also included are key takeaways from HOK’s recent global survey of corporate real estate executives that found:
72 percent of portfolios is leased space
67 percent anticipate growth will be leased space; eight percent envision coworking space as part of future growth strategy
47 percent expect to increase headcount in the coming year
59 percent have a formal distributed work program; 41 percent prefer employees to be on site
76 percent have a portion of portfolio with unassigned space, with the remaining 24 percent assigning staff to work points
82 percent monitor and track space utilization; only 13 percent use sensors with 56 percent tracing via badge-in or IT login and 30 percent via observation studies.
Among the trends highlighted in HOK’s new report:
Evolving amenities: Companies looking to attract and retain top talent continue to develop amenity offerings, which can range from nap pods and wellness rooms to medical clinics and maker spaces.
Data and disruption: ‘Smart’ workspaces, replete with multiple sensors, will continue to increase. Designers and clients continue to learn how to leverage that data to optimize space. Yet they must balance this with a commitment to valuing humans over metrics.
Beyond open plan: One size does not fit all, and the right space solution for each tech company will depend on its culture, work style, mobility profiles and business goals. HOK explores the characteristics and considerations for options including Activity-Based Workplaces, Neighborhood-based Choice Environments (NCE), Agile Environments, Maker Environments for Mobile Occupants (MEMO) and Immersive Environments.
You can check out the full report here. Let us know in the comments if you are seeing the same trends in your workplace!