Design News You Can Use: April 2019

Looking for a dose of design news you can use? In this edition, Workplace Strategist Jake Devost shares a recap of the bi-weekly Workplace Wrap-Up newsletter from CallisonRTKL’s office in Washington DC. This month we learned about the rise of coworking, digital transformation woes, the debate over privacy and surveillance.

These stories are sure to give insight into the latest news for your workplace. Check them out below!

Roses and thorns. Self-reflection is important to monitor growth, gratitude and satisfaction, especially in the workplace. Why not take a minute to reflect with your coworkers? You may have used this technique in grade school or summer camp – the “roses and thorns” activity to identify positives and insufficiencies in each day. Read how this simple exercise can boost office morale and improve employee relationships.

Above and beyond. CBRE announced a new platform that blends workplace and hospitality. The co-working-style offices named A&B (Above & Beyond) are stocked with amenities and technology fitting to a variety of workstyles. The newly renovated spaces will also feature a workplace app that highlights nearby services and wayfinding materials specific to each location. A&B will launch this month and reach 20 office buildings by the end of the year.

Digital transformation. Last year, American companies spent $1.3 trillion on digital transformation initiatives. It’s estimated that $900 million of that was wasted on ineffective strategies. Harvard Business Review offers five lessons in taking your company through a digital transformation. Hint: it’s not all about technology!

The District of Coworking. JLL recently ranked the Washington D.C./Northern Virginia area #6 and #7 of the top 10 markets most suitable for coworking growth. While much of the industry here is related to government, the coworking market has embraced government-adjacent tenants like tech firms and enterprise businesses. In fact, WeWork is now the largest private office tenant in D.C.

Privacy, please! How would constant surveillance at work effect your productivity? From tools to analyze emails and site visits, to wellness trackers and embedded chips, the world of surveillance can get personal. Over half of America’s top-earning companies used non-traditional surveillance techniques last year, and that number is expected to rise. Read the debate over productivity and privacy from BBC.

CallisonRTKL

CallisonRTKL

For more than five decades, Callison and RTKL have created some of the world’s most memorable and successful environments for developers, retailers, investors, institutions and public entities. In 2015, our two practices came together under the Arcadis umbrella, expanding our sphere of influence and the depth and breadth of our resources. Our team is comprised of nearly 2,000 creative, innovative professionals throughout the world who are committed to advancing our client’s businesses and enhancing quality of life.