The word “hybrid” has been thrown around as a new way of thinking about how companies will work in the future. As the pandemic is now becoming endemic, organizations are starting to realize they need to define the hybrid work environment now or risk missing a great opportunity. A hybrid (or active workspace) is increasingly being recognized as an extension of the home office, with common characteristics to optimize productivity and create a safe, familiar space to work. It is our job as planners, designers, leaders, and builders to help define the hybrid setting for each system, department, and individual and create environments that are desirable to the workforce.
Learning Objectives
- Communicate and articulate an understanding of the definition of hybrid work and create a common goal that is effective for leadership and meets the desires and needs of the staff.
- Identify strategies to adequately address leadership’s apprehension regarding a loss of productivity, staff engagement, and control.
- Understand the need for culture change to allow staff to embrace the freedom of choice and ways to capitalize on the conveniences and comforts of a hybrid work environment.
- Create different types of spaces that are active, unassigned, and inviting to staff to provide opportunities for privacy, collaboration, quick touchdown, and casual meeting.
Corrie Feldmann
Senior Facility Planner
The Ohio State University Medical Center
Paul Lenz, RA
Senior Facility Planner
The Ohio State University Medical Center
Andrew Kim
Project Planner
Steelcase
Erin Hill
Interior Design Planner
The Ohio State University Medical Center