Transforming workplaces into performing workspaces—Holistic evaluation concept for managing workspace change projects

Abstract

AbstractTransforming traditional workplaces into high-performing workspaces is a complex venture, not only in terms of design and preparation, but also in terms of implementation and management with regard to the realization of the intended goals. To be successful, holistic management is essential.Starting with the definition of goals and performance metrics, evaluation must be established from the very beginning and then continuously be applied to the project.The evaluation concept—like a controlling system, only with workspace-specific aspects and KPIs—covers two areas: The main dimensions of workspace design with the involved stakeholders and their performance parameters, and the processes of implementation, the change management aspects. The interaction of these areas must also be considered.The overall study discusses both success factors and potential pitfalls regarding the content and processes of designing and implementing modern office work environments in Germany. The study excerpt presented here addresses the evaluation of transformation projects in the field of working environments. Conceptually, instruments of marketing research are combined with components of controlling systems to develop an evaluation concept, which was then applied in a first empirical concept test at a German financial institution.An evaluation concept supports those responsible for the workspace project to keep on track by deducting and tracking relevant KPIs, offering tools and methods for group and team processes regarding the change project, and providing those.To combine design and change management of workspace projects in one evaluation concept and to provide a structured list of possible instruments/methods for evaluation over the different phases of such a project is new and thus original for workspace management.