Putting Humans First - Implementing Human-Centered Design at Work

Human-centered work design: What does this mean and how can it be implemented?

In recent years, the concept of human centered work design has gained significant attention, particularly as automation and digitalization become more prevalent. The human-centered approach to workplace design prioritizes the needs and capabilities of people in the creation of office environments, processes, and systems. This approach aims to maximize employee well-being, productivity, and engagement. In this blog, we delve deeper into the connection between human centered work design and its application in office management, as well as the benefits of implementing hybrid work environments and solutions, like those offered by Pult.

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What is human centric work design?

Human centric work design is an approach that places employees at the center of work environment design, taking into account their needs, abilities, and preferences when creating work processes, technologies, and spaces. This approach is based on a deep understanding of human behavior, cognition, and emotions, with the goal of creating work environments that promote physical and mental well-being, productivity, and engagement.

The human centric work design approach is based on the idea that work is not just a series of tasks to be performed, but a holistic experience that affects the physical, emotional and mental state of employees. The approach emphasizes the importance of designing work environments that support employees' needs for autonomy, competence, and connectedness. It recognizes that employees are not mere resources, but unique individuals with different talents, skills, and preferences.

According to studies, employees who work in a human-centered environment are 3.8 times more likely to be high performers, 3.2 times more likely to be willing to stay in their jobs, and 3.1 times more likely to be less fatigued than when these practices are not implemented. Three key elements for the successful implementation of human-centered work design are flexible work experiences, intentional collaboration and empathy-based management.
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When we talk about human-centric work design, we are talking about the "user experience" at the workplace. However, employees should be perceived less as users than as people with needs.
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The benefits of implementing human centric work design and hybrid solutions in office

One aspect of human centric work design that is increasingly relevant in modern office management is the implementation of hybrid work environments. These hybrid solutions, like the ones provided by Pult, offer employees the flexibility to work from various locations, such as the office, home, or co-working spaces, thus catering to their individual needs and preferences. This flexibility is essential to creating a truly human-centric design, as it supports employees' needs for autonomy and fosters a sense of connectedness.

Hybrid work environments and solutions also contribute to the four principles of human-centered design, which include:

1. Humans at the center

By offering flexible work options, hybrid solutions ensure that workplace design is tailored to the individual needs and context of each employee.

2. Symbiosis

Hybrid work environments create a system in which all components, such as workspaces and technologies, are interconnected and equally important.

3. Understanding problems

Hybrid solutions allow for a better understanding of the issues that employees face in different work settings, enabling the development of long-term, root-cause solutions.

4. Intervene small and constantly

Hybrid work environments enable continuous testing and refining of design elements and approaches to meet the ever-changing needs of employees.

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What are the benefits of human-centered workplace design?

The benefits of implementing human-centered work design and hybrid solutions in office management are numerous, including increased productivity, job satisfaction, employee well-being, and reduced employee turnover.

Increased productivity

When work and the work environment are designed to match the capabilities and limitations of workers, they are more likely to give their best. Hybrid work environments facilitate this by providing employees with the flexibility to choose their preferred work setting, which can boost their productivity.

For example, if a task is too physically demanding for an employee, this can lead to fatigue and thus to a loss of productivity. However, if the task is designed to be easier, the employee can perform it more efficiently and effectively. But this doesn't just apply to physical overload. If a task is too complex and thus requires a high level of concentration, this can lead to errors and thus again to productivity losses. By simplifying the task or providing support such as training or tools, the employee can perform the task more accurately and efficiently.

Increased job satisfaction

When employees feel that their work has been designed with their needs in mind, they are more likely to feel valued and engaged in their work. Hybrid solutions contribute to higher job satisfaction by offering flexible work arrangements and personalized workspaces.

Want an example? For example, if an employee has the ability to set his or her own hours or work from a home office, he or she may be more satisfied with his or her work and feel more committed to his or her employer. If the work is designed to be challenging yet doable, employees may feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when they successfully complete their tasks.

Increased wellbeing

Human centric work design, combined with hybrid work environments, can lead to better physical and mental well-being for employees. Ergonomic workstations, reduced noise levels, and the flexibility to work from home or other preferred locations can all contribute to a healthier, less stressful work experience.

For example, providing ergonomic workstations and tools can reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. However, this is also about mental health and stress reduction, which can be achieved, for example, by reducing noise levels in the workplace.

When work is designed to be less stressful and physically demanding, employees are also less likely to experience burnout, which can lead to absenteeism and lower productivity.

Lower fluctuation

By implementing human centric work design and hybrid solutions, companies can reduce employee turnover and absenteeism. When employees feel valued and supported by their employer, they are more likely to remain loyal and committed to their jobs.

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How can human centric work design be implemented?

To implement human-centered workplace design, companies should involve their employees in the design process and provide training and support so that tasks can be performed effectively. In doing so, workplace design must be regularly evaluated and adjusted to ensure that it remains effective and relevant.

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Prioritization of wellbeing

The basic approach of people-centered workplace design is to prioritize the well-being of employees. It is about creating a work environment that promotes the physical, emotional and mental health of employees.

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Culture of trust

Human centric work design is synonymous with a corporate culture built on trust and respect. It is about creating a workplace where employees feel valued, respected and supported. This includes promoting open communication, listening to employee feedback and involving employees in decision-making processes.

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Autonomy

Employers should empower their employees to take charge of their own work and thus make them the focus of their own responsibility. This includes giving employees the opportunity to make their own decisions and take responsibility for their work. As soon as employees have the feeling that they are responsible for their work, they are more likely to get involved and invest in their work on their own initiative.

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People centered design approach

When designing work processes, it is important to consider the perspective of employees. The tasks that are most important to employees should be identified, and processes should be designed to support their ability to perform these tasks effectively.

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Flexibility

A crucial aspect of human centric work design is the assurance of comprehensive flexibility. Employees have different needs that should be addressed flexibly. This can include offering flexible working hours, the possibility of remote working or the consideration of other personal needs.

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Opportunities for growth

Providing opportunities for growth and development is essential to creating a people-centered workplace. Employees should feel that they are constantly learning and developing. This leads to higher engagement and motivation.

As we delve deeper into the intricacies of the modern workplace, the role of hybrid work environments becomes even more crucial. Our detailed exploration of human centric work design has brought to light the many advantages of this approach, which is not only beneficial for employees but also significantly impacts business productivity and customer satisfaction.

The Pult hybrid workplace solution is a testament to this approach. Designed with the user experience in mind, it offers flexibility, considers individual preferences, and facilitates intentional collaboration—all crucial elements of human-centric work design. The Pult solution also takes into account the growing need for empathy-based management, fostering a work environment that is designed around employees' needs and well-being.

Are you interested in experiencing the benefits of a hybrid work environment for yourself? We invite you to learn more about our approach to hybrid workspaces and how they can transform your office experience. Visit our Hybrid Workplace Experience Page for a deeper understanding of our human-centric approach, and let's shape the future of work together.

As we continuously strive to align with evolving workplace dynamics and the needs of the workforce, we always value your feedback and insights. If you have any thoughts or questions about hybrid workspaces or human-centric work design, please don't hesitate to reach out.

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