The latest research from the BCO, Defining and Measuring Productivity in Offices, undertaken by Currie & Brown, examines how the physical design and management of offices can influence both individual and organisational productivity. It provides a definition of a productive workplace, how productivity can be measured and the steps that can be taken to make the most of available opportunities to improve performance.

The report identifies four different elements which need to be considered in creating a good workplace environment. It should be healthy, supporting and improving individual wellbeing in the workplace and efficient, making good use of space, time and information. It also needs to be effective, enabling people to do their work well, and engaging – looking and feeling like a great place to work.

Creating a better workplace environment is something that should be a priority for the property professionals. The report provides designers, developers, owners, occupiers and managers of office space with a framework which can be used in its entirety or in a piecemeal fashion to address specific issues. It can be adopted and adapted to bring about improvements in work environments with a direct and positive impact on productivity.

In business, productivity is everything. It drives efficiencies, creates profits and promotes economic growth. The human element is critical: if staff are to give the very best of themselves they need to be happy, healthy and motivated.