Understanding People and Process Resulting in Design of Place
Over the next few blog entries, Brady will be discussing how individuals interact with others and their environment at work and how this affects the planning behind design of space.
How do we choose a place to work? What drives us to join and stay with a company? It is a complex answer that stems from functional, emotional, physical and social aspects of being a human being at work. The balance needed to maintain a positive value proposition between an individual and an organization is in constant flux. Likely the most complex issue that a company should be concerned about is the social dynamics of the work created.
The science of social dynamics is the study of the ability of a group of people who are in relation with each other to react to inner and outer changes. This mathematically inspired approach to people comprises an analysis of the group’s ability to deal with its regulation mechanisms. Workplace design builds upon the systems, sociology and individual behaviors of the group in order to shape space to affect positive results in the dynamics of the group.
More and more my conversations with clients are round the idea of optimizing the work space to increase efficiency and productivity for scientists while maintaining a safe environment. Why you might ask? In these economic times companies want to expand in place and make minor changes in space and process that could have benefits of increased employee satisfaction and quality, while using less resources, time, and effort.
How do we do this? We implement Lean Lab Principles. Lean lab principles are derived from lean manufacturing and the 5S workplace organization methodology. These Lean principles can aid a laboratory in increasing speed, efficiency, quality and safety. The physical layout will affect how people work.
Going through this collaborative process you can improve the performance of your lab by improving flow and eliminating waste.
1. Sort – to get rid of unnecessary equipment or store it.
2. Straighten (or “Set in Order”) – Organize work areas for maximum efficiency by organizing tools & equipment to promote optimum work flows through minimizing movement. 3. Shine – Everything is cleaned and functioning properly. 4. Standardize – Develop a routine for sorting, setting and shining.� 5. Sustain–create a culture that follows the steps on a daily basis.
