New Report: Workplace Space Stabilizing
A recent report reveals trends in workspace management, including the increase of collaborative workspace, expansion plans and the leveling off of shrinking workspaces.
By CleanLink Editorial Staff
A recent report reveals trends in workspace management, including the increase of collaborative workspace, expansion plans and the leveling off of shrinking workspaces.
The report, Space and Project Management Benchmarks, Research Report no. 28, released by the
International Facility Management Association (IFMA), finds that in 1987, the space allocated to an executive office was an average of 291 square feet; today that figure is down to 241.
Today’s senior professional has on average about 98 square feet, and call center employees are typically assigned around 50. The vast majority of workers occupy cubicles (59 percent), while 7 percent work in open areas with no partitions. Only 34 percent have private offices, according to the report.
However, the shrinking workspace trend has leveled off, with relatively little change since 2002, the report finds.
The use of collaborative space and amenities is growing. Since 2002, the amount of space devoted to conference, training and break out areas has increased more than 17 percent. Workers have also benefited by gaining access to expanded amenity areas such as cafeterias, fitness facilities and day care centers, according to the report.
Despite the movement to home offices and virtual work, there are more people than ever working in buildings. Survey results indicate 41 percent of reporting organizations are planning expansion.
Hospitals and clinics, energy companies, educational institutions, airports and multi-residential facilities such as retirement housing and dormitories are some of the industries planning to build or lease more space. Industries planning to downsize space include aircraft and industrial equipment, computer and motor vehicle manufacturers.
Related Topics:
