As a company focused on transforming the human experience, NELSON Worldwide set out to understand how individuals have responded to the sudden change in our work styles and work environments. The architecture, design, and strategy firm conducted a survey to determine the impact COVID-19 has had on work performance and expectations. Surveying over 2,000 people, the findings provide support and context for decision-makers for re-entry into the workplace and also provide insight into a post-pandemic office, both culturally and physically.
“As offices slowly reopen, executives will have to take into account employee concerns and new expectations regarding personal space and social distancing concerns,” said Barbara Riekse, Workplace Practice Leader at NELSON Worldwide. “Our goal has always been to create built environments that put occupants at the forefront and foster a culture of accessibility and safety for all. Through this survey, we hoped to provide insight into reopening strategies that highlight flexibility, resiliency, community, culture, and employee safety.”
The first key finding suggests that employees are longing for purposeful and visible changes to increase safety measures in the office. This is top of mind in order to assure that re-entry in the workplace is safe. Whether this is carried out by means of wayfinding, increased sanitation protocols, or direct implementation of distancing in workstations, staff is eager to see the action carried out. The survey concludes that 83 percent of employees have rated physical safety measures to be extremely or very important.