Activity Based Working: Definition, Concept, Study & More
Activity Based Working (ABW) is a workplace concept where employees choose from different zones (like focus areas, collaboration spaces, or quiet rooms) based on their current task, rather than having fixed desks, with studies showing this approach can improve collaboration while optimizing space usage and costs.
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In this blog post, you'll learn everything about the Activity Based Working definition, the concept behind it and exciting insights from studies. Are you ready? Let's go!
What does Activity Based Working mean?
Activity Based Working (ABW) is a concept in which the working environment is designed to optimally support a range of different activities. This means that instead of having a fixed desk, employees choose the workspace that is best suited to the task at hand. This could be a traditional desk, but it could also be a lounge, retreat or creative space.
How does the activity based working concept work?
The Activity Based Working concept is based on the idea that different activities place different demands on the working environment. To this end, ABW offices have different zones, such as:
1. focus zones for concentrated work
2. collaboration zones for teamwork and meetings
3. communication zones for informal exchanges
4. retreat areas for confidential conversations or phone calls
Employees choose the appropriate area depending on their task and needs and flexibly move between zones throughout the day.
What do studies say about Activity Based Working?
There are already some exciting studies that look at the impact of ABW on employees and companies. Here are a few interesting findings:
A study by the University of Sydney shows that ABW can improve collaboration and communication within teams.
According to a survey by Leesman, employees feel more comfortable in ABW offices and are happier with their working environment.
A study by Deloitte showed that companies can save on real estate costs and optimise space utilisation through ABW.
Of course, there are also challenges to implementing ABW, such as employee acceptance and choosing the right technologies and tools.
The future of work?
Activity-based working is definitely an exciting concept for the future that offers many advantages – from more flexibility and collaboration to cost savings. Incidentally, our Desk Booking Tool is the perfect addition to ABW, as it allows employees to easily find and book the right workplace for their work.
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