In activity based working, there is no fixed or designated workstation for employees. The entire workplace/office is divided into predefined activity areas where employees can go to complete their tasks. Instead of spending the entire day rooted to a single workstation, employees get to choose where they work, thus increasing their output.


Activity based working has both advantages and disadvantages, but the pros outweigh the cons, read on:


Pros of activity based working


  • When employees are allowed to work in their preferred setting, which in their opinion is the best for a particular task, it shores up creativity, motivation levels, collaboration with other colleagues, and increases concentration. With activity based working, employees can manage their time and workflow better. 
  • Activity based working offices offer a free environment for the employees. This boosts their morale and self-confidence, thus boosting productivity. 
  • ABW leads to better utilization of space. Since there are no individually demarcated workstations, the office space can be better utilized. 
  • ABW leads to cost-cutting. Companies can decrease the number of workstations that are required because there are also remote workers who have their setup at home and who do not come to the office every day. This leads to optimization of the space and decrease in the cost of rent and office utility bills as well as office maintenance expenses. 
  • Embracing ABW demonstrates that the office is progressive and takes care of the employees. This attitude of the business or workplace attracts fresh talents who are interested in working for your business provided that they have an activity based working office. 

Cons of activity based working


  • In an ABW, there is an increased noise level because the employees are always on the move, going from one workstation to the other. Also, lounge-like settings can foster talks between employees, and that may disturb others. 
  • At times there may be desks unavailable, as one or more employees might need the same workstation. It might lead to friction unless the employees get along really well with each other. 
  • There is no personal storage space. However, this problem can be offset by the introduction of personal lockers in the storage room. 

As we can see, the advantages of activity based working far outweigh the disadvantages. Also, the disadvantages can easily be taken care of-for example, having a quiet corner for those who want to work undisturbed and so forth. Investing in an activity based working office offers a vibrant, healthy, and happy ambiance to employees. Upscale your office to activity based setup to reap benefits from your employees.