Workplace Strategy | A data-informed plan that aligns a company’s work environment with its business goals, employee needs and organisational culture.
In today’s competitive business landscape, talent is everything. Forward-thinking organisations are seeking out new tools to future-proof their office. One of the most powerful tools is a well-crafted workplace strategy, setting the foundation for collaboration, productivity and long term return on investment.
Understanding the Spaceful approach
“Workplace strategy plays a pivotal role in driving organisational success. Our unique approach leverages ethnographic research to deeply understand the activities, behaviours and rituals that shape how people work.
Leaders often ask: “What are other organisations doing?” But the real questions is: “What matters most to your business?” Strategy is about uncovering that truth. We immerse ourselves in the day-to-day, observing how people move, connect and collaborate. This insight informs every design decision, aligning space with culture and business goals.”
– Tica Masuku, Global Workplace Strategy Director at Spaceful
By identifying the activities and values that drive performance, we align leadership, unify stakeholders and set the foundation for a thriving environment primed for organisational success.
What's involved?
Core elements to consider in a workplace strategy
Assess your current workplace
Understand how space is being used and where it isn’t working. This includes layout, utilisation and functional gaps.
Define clear business goals
Set clear and measurable objectives, such as improving collaboration, boosting productivity, or enhancing employee well-being, and let those guide the design.
Factor in how people work
Put employees at the centre. Gather insights via surveys, workshops and one-on-ones to understand preferences and support different workstyles.
Partner with experts early
Engaging workplace strategists early ensures design, property and delivery decisions are aligned, and costly mistakes are avoided. Spaceful’s integrated model brings all disciplines together under one roof.
It's all about timing
When is the right time for workplace strategy?
Lease expiry: Rethink your space before resigning a lease.
Relocation: Use the move to future-proof your office.
Growth or downsizing: Adjust your space to fit changing needs.
Change in business strategy: Align your environment with new goals and culture.
Workplace strategy can benefit any business
Common misconceptions
Many people assume that workplace strategy is only for large corporates with a sizeable workforce. In reality, it can be tailored to suit any organisation, and the return on investment applies to small and mid-sized organisations.
Who benefits from a workplace strategy?
Employees: Employees are the driving force behind any successful business. The right space supports focus, flexibility and wellbeing, leading to higher engagement and satisfaction.
Businesses: Workplace strategy directly impacts a company’s bottom line. A well-designed workspace increases productivity, supports culture and helps attract and retain top talent.
Stakeholders: Aligning physical space with environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments sends a clear signal about your values and supports long-term success.
Planet: Sustainable office design pays dividends in myriad ways, cutting energy use and supporting smarter, greener design choices. Learn more about how Spaceful incorporated sustainability into Law Council’s workplace strategy.
Workplace strategy can drive performance and success
What you can expect from a well-designed workplace strategy
When done right, workplace strategy doesn’t just improve your office, it enhances how your business operates. Here’s what it can unlock:Alignment between your space, culture, and business goals
- Higher employee satisfaction and engagement
- Improved productivity and operational efficiency
- Reduced employee turnover and stronger retention
- Alignment between space, culture and business goals
A strategic workplace is more than design, it’s driver of business performance. If you’ve read this far, you’re likely wondering what a workplace strategy can unlock for your business.
Contact our expert team to learn how we can transform your workspace.
“An effective workplace strategy unlocks potential. When your employees feel supported at work, they are more committed, more productive and they become more invested in your success.”
