Smart office technology enables workers to have greater control over their schedules, working environments, and communications with colleagues. This helps to support greater autonomy and ownership over their work, leading to a happier and more productive workforce with a higher output level. Workplaces that do not mold themselves according to employee needs are coming to an end. With rapid transitions, we are entering the era of the 'Smart Office.' Smart offices draw on a variety of different technologies and tools. Tools used in a smart office can include video conferencing software, meeting room software, desk reservation software, hardware tools and analytic tools, giving insight into how the various spaces are utilized.
Benefits Of A Smart Office
A smart office can prove to be a powerful option with visible benefits in more than one aspect of the office.
- Improvement of Staff Efficiency and Productivity - It makes tasks easier and can help automate many processes, freeing people to work on high-volume tasks instead of menial ones. Employees can reach their goals faster and focus on skill development which benefits both the company and the individual.
- A More Secure Office - Devices like WIFI sensors and security cameras can be incorporated. In addition, cloud based solutions help boost security within the office because they are managed by specialist companies that invest in security.
- A More Convenient, Customized, and Comfortable Work Space - Smart technology can allow staff to control aspects of their working environment such as temperature and advanced workspace booking.
- Operations Costs Reductions - Smart technology can provide valuable data on how space is being used and where space could be redundant and sold off. Smart devices can reduce energy usage, benefiting the environment and reducing utility bills. Smart Office technology can also automatically set the lighting and heating to turn off when space is not in use, making a workplace much more energy efficient.
- Better Workforce Relations - It enhances collaboration and facilitates flexible working teamwork and productivity by using remote collaboration tools that enable teams to connect and collaborate regardless of physical location. It enables workers to have greater control over their schedules, working environments, and communication with colleagues. This supports autonomy and ownership over their work. All of this leads to a happier and a more productive workforce.
As you can see all the technology that creates a Smart Office makes for a better environment for the workforce with increased productivity, plus an energy efficient money saving operation.
Features That Should Not Be Overlooked When Creating Your Smart Office
Not all smart offices are created equal. Much like smartphones, some are better equipped than others. Let's consider some must-have features for your smart office...
- Smart Lighting - Smart lighting is often the first step that companies take when modernizing their office environment. That’s because smart lighting has the potential to reduce energy costs by 90 percent. Smart lighting consists of five key features... LED lighting, IoT sensors and controls, connectivity, analytics, and intelligence.
- Intelligent Climate Control - The systems are capable of detecting usage patterns and preferences with intelligent sensors strategically placed within the office to detect motion and activity. They can then regulate temperature. Smart thermostats can be installed and employees can control their individual workspace, sure makes your staff happy, boost their morale, and productivity.
- Smart Conference Rooms - Smart meeting rooms are another must-have feature of a smart office. Smart meeting rooms incorporate software that allows users to get necessary equipment, catering ,room reservations and can send alerts to attendees. A comprehensive meeting management system will even incorporate intelligent visitor management by automating the visitor check in process and providing the directions and support visitors need.
- Smart Desks - Smart desks are the siblings of the smart conference room. Similar to the intelligent conference room, smart desks are searchable and reservable via an online booking platform. This is a must-have for offices with desk sharing and hot desking. Not only does a smart desk booking system help employees find an open desk for the day, but it keeps track of who has reserved each space, so employees who are in the building can easily track down colleagues.
- Video Monitoring - Video monitoring adds a level of security to the office. It also helps facilities managers and administrators collect data to analyze how office spaces are being utilized. Not only does this enhance security within the workplace, but it can be connected to the desk booking and space utilization element of the smart office.
- Hardware and Software Integration - To ensure acceptable performance of Smart Office, both hardware and software come into play. These requirements are based on a combination of software design and field performance tests. Computers configured to exceed the minimum hardware requirements may further enhance the overall performance of a Smart Office. In terms of software businesses should look to specialist cloud-based platforms specifically designed to support the smart office environment. Businesses must know that the tools they invest in are user-friendly and meet the organization's specific needs. Seek expert advice and opinions on the technological aspects before investing. Smart technology should support people to work more efficiently and comfortably.
Hot Desking
Hot desking is an office organization system which involves multiple workers using a single physical work station or surface during different time periods. Rather than people being static in where they work, companies can offer a range of spaces tailored to meet different working needs. Utilizing a comprehensive desk booking platform can allow companies to support their flexible workforce and manage their spaces more effectively. While traditional hot desking was often viewed as unfavorable by those working within these environments, smart office technology has transformed the experience.
The modern office is always evolving. As new technologies emerge designed to make our lives easier, safer, and more comfortable, it won’t be long until those tools become regular office fixtures.
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SimpTech Solutions operates as a residential and commercial electronics systems design and integration firm to deliver simple, flexible, and feature-rich technology solutions for customers across Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati. Why Choose SimpTech Solutions? Because we listen to you! Once we fully understand what you want, we can put together a solution to fulfill all your needs and your greatest desires.
- Guidance – The knowledge to educate you on the latest technologies available and discuss how they might benefit your lifestyle.
- Personalization – The skill to create or upgrade an electronic system that is uniquely yours.
- Convenience – All work from design to installation to user training is done for you. We handle all the details to bring you a great end result.
- Integration – The expertise to unite several separate electronic components together so they function as an easy-to-use cohesive system.
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