Evaluation of the Workplace Environment in the UK, and the Impact on Users’ Levels of Stimulation

Bob Giddings, Jenny Thomas, Linda Little

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

11 Citations (Scopus)
10 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to evaluate a number of recently completed workplaces in the UK. The first aim is to assess the impact of various aspects of the workplace environment on users’ levels of stimulation. The body of previous research undertaken into the workplace environment, identified the aspects to be investigated. Samples of employees from the sixteen businesses were surveyed to determine their perceptions of the workplaces. The results were entered into a regression analysis, and the most significant predictors of perceived stimulation identified. The data also revealed a dramatic reduction in staff arousal levels from mornings to afternoons. Thus, there is a second aim to determine whether changes to significant aspects of the workplace environment during the day can counteract the reduction in users’ stimulation. Two further workplaces were studied to enable changes to be made over a 12-week period. A sample of employees completed questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews revealed the reasons behind the results. It was found that provision of artwork, personal control of temperature and ventilation and regular breaks were the most significant contributions to increasing stimulation after lunch; while user choice of layout, and design and décor of workspaces and break areas, were the most significant aspects at design stage.
Original languageEnglish
JournalIndoor and Built Environment
Volume22
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 11 Dec 2013

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