The Great Outdoors: Workplace Trends Changing
May 11, 2016
In a changing workforce highlighted by the increasing impact of Millennials on the workforce, institutional and commercial facilities are responding to the desires of the generation to conduct their work or personal business in an increasingly mobile world.
A
recent white paper from Legrand, which specializes in electrical and network infrastructure systems, reflects this trend. The company’s research, compiled through discussions with 215 facility managers, revealed the increasing use of outdoor space in a variety of markets around the country. The demand has not fallen upon deaf ears by property owners, who are looking to maximize their investments by getting more revenue and use from their outdoor spaces.
The research helped Legrand in its development of
mobile device power charging stations, allowing people in commercial spaces where people visit and work to conduct their business remotely, or simply power up their cell phones and tablets when necessary.
The stations include a combination of standard power outlets, USB outlets and LED lights to illuminate pathways at night. The stations provide an alternative to temporary power solutions such as extension cords, cabling or wiring. Taking the issues even further, often the cabling and wires are covered by mats, which can increase tripping hazards and lead to other potentially dangerous issues, such as fires or electrocution.
An increasing younger workforce paves the way for a more mobile society, the whitepaper suggests. According to the study by Forbes magazine highlighted in the whitepaper, Millennials will make up three out of four members of the workforce by 2025 — individuals who grew up in a digital world and desire constant connection to their worlds.
This quick read was submitted by Dave Lubach, associate editor for Facility Maintenance Decisions. Reach him at dave.lubach@tradepress.com.
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