How Important Is It to Have a Nice Environment at Work?

The link between a good working environment and productivity is clear and proven. Previous generations of workers were obliged to operate in generally fairly dismal conditions. Bleak offices, factory production lines, windowless offices and smoky environments were all commonplace. Staff were managed on the original 'theory x / theory y' school of thought, which involved managing staff very tightly, with centralised decision making, little flexibility, a strong and process-driven operating environment and strict management controls.

Why is a good working environment so important?
Numerous studies have shown the importance of a pleasant and healthy working environment. On Maslow's hierarchy of needs - an established model of working satisfaction - a safe and healthy work environment is one of the most basic of needs for any employee.

How have things changed?
Government legislation was one of the first steps to improving the working environment, addressing everything from working hours regulations, to the control of hazardous substances and protective clothing, all designed to improve the basic working conditions of staff. At a basic and fundamental level, this started to tackle the abysmal health and safety records of employers (hark back to the working environments of our Grandparents and injuries / deaths in service were not uncommon in many physical occupations). The positive effects on the workforces were noticed: reduced absence, sickness and staff turnover, more productive working time and fewer incidents in the workplace.

Developing the 'softer' side
More recently, organisational psychologists started to investigate the links between 'softer' factors at work and business productivity. Staff morale and motivation was found to have proven links with business results and productivity and far greater emphasis was put into boosting employee goodwill, through strategies which included improving working environments. As society began to undergo a wider transformation, with greater numbers of skilled jobs, competition, qualified staff and changing expectations, employers were suddenly obliged to start making efforts to keep the best employees.

They began hiring experts to create pleasant working atmospheres. Everything from soothing office décor, to water fountains, better canteens, breakout areas and other on-site facilities, all designed to keep staff happy, comfortable, safe and secure during their working hours. No longer was basic safety sufficient, but employees, increasingly used to living in better environments, expected that their workplace would reflect this change for the better.

The results
Numerous workplace studies have proven the causal link between working environment and employee morale / organisational productivity. An entire industry has been created around workplace design, ergonomics and environment and the trend shows no sign of reversing, with staff surveys increasingly referencing the importance of their working environment.

Practical Steps to improving working environments
Smaller businesses needn't despair however if they don't have the budgets for koi carp ponds and water features in glass-fronted reception areas! Small details such as plants (proven to reduce stress in corporate environments), adequate water and refreshment facilities, large windows with views, controllable temperature controls, little perks such as food treats, spacious desk spaces and clean washrooms and kitchens are all small improvements that will pay serious dividends.

For more information visit Oxford Business Park.