Beyond bricks
and mortar

What’s inside:

| 99% of responses see office advantages—discover the top benefits.

| How purpose-driven offices boost engagement and retention.

| Case spotlight: How Barclays’ workplace strategy drives productivity and employee value.

Beyond bricks and mortar: purpose-driven office environments

The contemporary workplace is undergoing a significant transformation, moving away from a mere collection of physical spaces towards a purpose-driven office environment that is fundamental for a thriving and effective workforce.

This transition acknowledges that while remote work offers advantages for many of the workforce, the physical office still holds a vital, albeit redefined role. It is now a catalyst for company culture, actively fostering connection, collaboration and the sharing of knowledge.

99%

of responses recognise the particular advantages
of the office.

The evolving purpose of the workplace

Despite the flexibility appeal of home working, nearly all responses (99%) recognise the specific advantages of working from the office. Given the concern that people have over diminishing relationships as a result of long-term home working, the office has a key role to play in this area and more.

In fact, 51% of survey responses say the main advantages of the office are to do with social interaction and employees’ office experience. This figure is driven by spending time and knowledge sharing with others.

Advantages of the office for employees

When well-utilised and focused on collaboration, the in-office time can be a key enabler of productivity and it can be a vital space for the transfer of skills and ideas.

A purpose-driven office environment recognises that certain aspects of wellbeing directly support productivity. For instance, a pleasant work environment featuring comfortable furnishings, social areas and quiet zones for focused work is essential. These elements help to minimise distractions and create a setting conducive to concentration and higher output.

Insights from customer interviews, conducted alongside our employee survey, further support the link between a purpose-driven office and productivity.

51%

of responses say the main advantages of the office are social interaction and their office experience.

Barclays’ workplace strategy, supported by tech-enabled ‘concierge’ style services, aims to create an “exceptional curated experience” that caters to the diverse needs of its employees. By making the office a place where employees feel valued and engaged, the bank aims to increase productivity, and even reduce sickness days through initiatives like wellness programmes. Similarly, Danske Bank provides tailored support and resources to “enhance productivity and job satisfaction”.

What is your workplace strategy at Barclays?

“Our workplace strategy is centred on creating an exceptional, curated experience that caters to the diverse needs of our employees. Recognising generational preferences, we aim to provide a seamless and personalised workplace environment that mirrors the convenience of working from home.

With the introduction of workplace concierge services, such as the GO-to team, we ensure colleagues receive the support they need to enhance their in-office experience. By integrating technology and fostering collaboration, we strive to make the office a place where employees feel valued and engaged.”

How do you improve workplace experience
at Barclays?

“Improving the workplace experience requires a multifaceted approach that includes technology integration, wellness initiatives, and curated events. The Convenie app is a key tool for enhancing the colleague experience, offering features such as booking transport, ordering coffee, and navigating the office.

We also prioritise wellness programmes and unique initiatives, including alpaca walks and collaborations with local charities, to engage employees and boost morale. By aligning our efforts with a commitment to outstanding user experience, we aim to reduce sick days and increase productivity.”

How do you measure success in the workplace experience?

“We measure success through a combination of feedback, engagement scores, and productivity metrics. We conduct annual surveys to gather insights from employees and understand their needs and preferences.

Initiatives like the Convenie app and curated events are evaluated based on their impact on employee satisfaction and wellness. By connecting the dots between elements such as food, benefits, and collaborative experiences, we aim to reduce sick days and improve overall productivity. Our goal is to create a workplace where employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated to perform at their best.”

What does the future of workplace experience look like?

“The future of workplace experience will be driven by technology and personalisation. AI and nudging technologies will play a significant role in delivering tailored experiences based on individual preferences.

The next generation of employees will require new types of collaboration spaces and a stronger focus on well-being. Curated experiences and sustainability will be essential in attracting and retaining talent. As we continue to evolve, our focus will be on creating a seamless and efficient workplace that meets the diverse needs of our employees.”

What are the priorities for sustainability at Barclays?

“Sustainability is a key priority for us, with initiatives aimed at improving food supply chains and implementing environmentally friendly solutions. We recognise the need to communicate our sustainability efforts more effectively to our colleagues.

Our focus is on creating social value and reducing environmental impact, ensuring that our initiatives are understood and appreciated by employees. By integrating sustainability into our workplace strategy, we aim to make a positive difference and contribute to a more sustainable future.”