The multi-stage art of work space design for organizational change

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings This research paper aims to extract strategy lessons and key objectives from office space redesign projects undertaken by accounting firms in Canada, the UK, and Ireland. Such projects can be structured over four distinct stages: 1) Imagining, 2) Testing, 3) Stabilizing, and 4) Reifying. The results revealed that the consultation element of such projects is a key vehicle for engaging employees to such an extent that they accept the new space and inherent working practices. Supported by design professionals, office redesign projects are therefore a usefully influential, scalable mindset-shifting tool for achieving organizational change. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.