Work Anywhere, Win Everywhere: The Ultimate Guide to Activity-Based Working Success

How we help employees change to the ABW working model?

Activity-Based Working (ABW), also known as Agile Working, is a modern approach to workspace design that allows employees to work where, when, and how it best suits them. In ABW, the workspace design has undergone significant changes from traditional office models, with a reduction in the number of fixed assigned desks and an increase in diverse functional spaces that are best suited for each employee's activities.

Research to understand the need and redesign the workplace

Designing a workspace that meets the needs and activities of its users is crucial for improving the work environment and employee satisfaction. To create an effective ABW workspace, it is essential to understand the specific characteristics and requirements of the job as well as the needs of the employees. 

To gain a better understanding of their customers and employees, many organizations have turned to workplace surveys. For instance, ADP has implemented the Workplace Index Survey to understand the performance of the current office and the experience of the employees within that workspace. The survey helps organizations gain valuable insights into the areas that need improvement and helps provide direction for the development of a new workspace that is focused on enhancing the employee experience.

In designing an ABW workspace, it is important to consider the job requirements of the employees. This means that the workspace should be designed in such a way that it supports the specific activities of the employees. For example, an organization with a sales team might benefit from a more mobile ABW work style, with staff equipped with laptops and working from various locations, while an organization with a research and development department may require more structured spaces for experimentation and prototyping.

Understanding the needs and preferences of employees is also essential in determining the appropriate level of ABW work style. Some employees may prefer to work in a quieter space to focus on tasks, while others may prefer a more social environment to work collaboratively. Providing employees with the option to choose the environment that works best for them can improve employee engagement, satisfaction, and productivity. For instance, if the job requires collaboration, the workspace should facilitate teamwork and communication. On the other hand, if the job is more individualistic, employees should be provided with private workspaces to help them focus and concentrate.

The ADP Workplace Index Survey also sheds light on the preferences of employees. This information can be used to create an agile workspace that caters to the specific needs of the employees, which in turn can lead to increased job satisfaction and productivity. The survey reveals that employees prefer more natural light, comfortable chairs, or a certain level of noise. Taking these preferences into consideration can lead to a better and more efficient ABW environment.

Changing mindset

To fully embrace ABW, however, it's essential to change the mindset of both employers and employees. The biggest challenge of changing to an ABW workplace is a mindset shift. The traditional workplace culture demands that employees work in a fixed location, with fixed hours, and a fixed set of responsibilities. ABW, on the other hand, allows employees to work wherever they are most productive, with flexible hours, and a dynamic set of responsibilities. This shift can be difficult for both employees and leaders, who may have grown accustomed to the traditional workplace culture.

Another challenge of transitioning to an ABW workplace is creating an environment that encourages collaboration and communication. In an ABW workplace, employees may not have a fixed desk or workspace, which can make it difficult for them to establish relationships with their colleagues. Leaders need to create an environment that fosters collaboration, such as setting up communal workspaces or holding regular team meetings.

The lack of control and supervision can also be a challenge for some leaders. In an ABW workplace, leaders need to trust their employees to work independently and take responsibility for their own work. This requires a shift in leadership style, from one that is based on control and supervision to one that is based on trust and empowerment.

Changing mindsets and spatial design also go hand in hand when it comes to implementing ABW. The responsibility for adapting to a changing workplace has been placed mainly on the people within the space, which means that shifting mindsets is a crucial part of the change. However, it's also essential to note that success in the workplace of the future hinges on a balance of people and space adapting and evolving together. Rather than seeing space as static, the opportunity lies in seeing it as flexible, nimble, and adaptable.

Implemented technology

Implementing technology in an ABW workplace is crucial to its success. It allows employees to work seamlessly from anywhere, at any time, using a variety of devices. Here are some of the ways technology can be implemented in an ABW workplace:

• Portable devices: The use of laptops, tablets, and smartphones can help enhance the flexibility of an ABW workplace. Employees can easily move around and work from different locations, using their devices to access the tools and resources they need.

• Invest in technology: Leaders should invest in the right technology to make work seamless and accessible for their employees. This includes software for video conferencing, meeting room booking, and messaging apps to stay connected with team members at any place they are working. Additionally, ensuring that facilities like boards, screens, internet, and printers are easily accessible can make working remotely more manageable.

• Cloud-based software: Cloud-based software is a vital tool in an ABW workplace. It allows employees to access their files and applications from anywhere, using any device with an internet connection. This ensures that work can continue seamlessly, regardless of location.

• Video conferencing: Video conferencing software allows employees to hold virtual meetings, making it possible to collaborate and communicate effectively, even when working remotely. It also helps build team cohesion and ensures that everyone is on the same page.

• Collaboration tools: Collaboration tools like shared workspaces and online whiteboards can help employees work together seamlessly, even when they are not physically present in the same location.

ABW is a design strategy that supports flexibility and autonomy, but it's important to choose the appropriate level of ABW work style based on the nature of work, departmental characteristics, and employee needs. By providing employees with the tools they need to work efficiently and effectively, leaders can ensure that their ABW workplace is successful and productive.