Workspace vs Workplace: The overseen difference
Whilst the difference between a ‘workspace’ and ‘workplace’ is subtle, its distinctions are important for understanding the evolution of the contemporary work environment. This article will explore those distinctions, how technology is evolving them and what this means for productivity in your business.
What is a Workspace?
At its most basic element, a workspace is the immediate area where tasks are directly performed. Its most common form is a desk in an office, as well as hybrid remote spaces in your own home. It can include the shared printing machine, stationary cupboard, photocopier – just any place where the most basic function of work takes place. Often workspaces are not fixed to just one business, you might find several businesses all utilising the same workspace.
What is a workplace, and how does it differ to a workspace?
The workplace differs from a workspace by encompassing every element of the working environment outside of just where the tasks get done. It involves your building’s facilities, culture and even company policies. Often the workplace is tethered to just one business or company. They will often have the specialised equipment needed for a business and can be more fixed in their office practices and culture.
Why are workspaces revolutionary?
The concept of an optimised workspace is revolutionary for the productivity of your employees. If a workspace isn’t meeting the basic requirements of a job role, then your workers simply won’t meet the expectations placed upon them. An optimised workspace allows for greater productivity. When this is combined with a digital space, it means the whole infrastructure of a business can take place anywhere.
Businesses like Microsoft have been experimenting with such hybrid workspaces. By incorporating remote working as well as in person collaboration, they have seen a positive impact on productivity and a stronger sense of work-life balance.
Not every workspace will need the same thing. A larger, more corporate business might emphasise having the fastest equipment for a more specialised workspace. A smaller business or even a start-up might want to focus on workspaces that encourage communication between peers, flexibility and collaboration.
Which Does the General Population Prefer?
Most studies and surveys suggest there are still mixed preferences towards which is better, a ‘workspace’ or a ‘workplace’. It seems the suitability of each depends on numerous factors including: generational differences, the job demands and the overall industry.
Workspaces can create a sense of flexibility for workers. Many creatives, entrepreneurs and young people prefer the diverse environments they offer, often tailored made for their business needs. Workspaces are often very communal, fostering interactions with professionals amongst a number of industries.
On the other hand, some businesses may prefer the stability of a workplace. Workplaces are often great for businesses looking to grow and develop their own sense company culture. They will usually have all the resources related to a job in one place and provide access to specialised equipment.
It appears that the best approach is a balanced approach, one that makes use of the familiarity of a workplace but remains open and flexible to the possibility of hybrid workspaces.
How technology has advanced the development of workspaces
Technology truly has opened up the possibilities of workspaces. Incorporating mobile work solutions such as laptops and tablets, alongside a cloud based file sharing system truly allows people to work from any place at any time.
Virtual meeting platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams allow for a smoother hybrid working experience. You are no longer tethered to an office workplace, your business can encompass people from around the world. Many also let you record workspace analytics, allowing you to monitor performance and brainstorm productivity solutions.
Technology has proven to give workers a greater sense of freedom in their role, and flexibility with how they engage with their work. implementing an element of virtual workspace is vital for businesses that want to thrive and support their employees.
Explore Flexible Workspaces with Spacepool
With Spacepool you’ll have access to hundreds of flexible workspaces. We work with numerous businesses across London to provide tailor made workspaces perfect for your business needs. The process is done completely online, allowing you to search our available workspaces through photos and listing information before coming to a decision. You can search, hire and move all through the digital mobile service. Explore our London coworking solutions today.