I recently encountered this topic in a Forbes Leadership article – How Agile Working Has Impacted Our Workspace.
Although there were elements of the article that seemed beyond my work situation, I was intrigued by a quote by Martyn Freeman:
In an agile environment, ‘work’ becomes an activity rather than a place.
Until I read this definition, I thought creating an agile workspace was something only Google or Facebook could offer their employees. But that’s not the case. I realized that I had created an agile workspace here at CNE.
I needed a workspace that allowed comfortable engagement with members, trainers, colleagues, and visitors, yet gave me the space I needed to fulfill my work responsibilities. How to create the space?
First I needed to remove the large office desk. Perfect. I could do that.
Several years ago, I had subscribed to the paperless work environment which enabled me to easily migrate to a stand-up desk. And who knew there were health benefits?
The change allowed me to add a small round table which opened the space and invited people to join me in my office.
I now had the option of standing at my desk, or if I had a project requiring more space, I could work at the table.
If you are part of a nonprofit, you may be thinking. . . that’s fantastic but it’s too costly!
How fortunate that CNE is near the Habitat Store and Circa. I was able to purchase a stand-up desk, a phone table, and a round table for less than $120.
I encourage you to think differently about your workspace. How can your workspace better reflect activity rather than place?
There will be limitations, but be creative – even if it means adding only a plant or two.
—Cindy Colson, Director of Programs