A new report from Colliers International explains how office space design impacts workplace productivity and overall business success.

Released on Dec. 3, The Decisions Behind Workplace Design features interviews with two corporations, Global Relay Communications and A&W Food Services of Canada, to find out how significant design changes affect the companies.

An open concept work area was introduced at Global Relay Communications to encourage collaboration between employees and promote teamwork.

Other improvements included special lighting to decrease eye fatigue, and an on-site dining area and kitchen with a corporate chef to prepare meals for staff

The report says that the results of these changes were immediately apparent. Overall productivity increased, and employee turnover was reduced by 50 per cent.

A&W made workplace changes in the form of head office brand recognition and the merging of two meeting rooms into one. The report found that the adjustments resulted in greater employee engagement with A&W’s culture and increased productivity in terms of decision-making and communication with country-wide franchisees.

According to Colliers, employee retention, engagement and overall productivity are universal goals for most companies. By making changes in workplace design, these goals become more attainable.