Reduce noise and distractions
The research is in: Noise annoys us. Leesman a global research agency that measures employee experience for its Leesman Index, discovered that noise and distractions were one of the key considerations for improving office design.
Leesman found that excessive noise in open plan offices drives widespread discontent. In fact, 7 in 10 employees are unhappy with the acoustics in their workplace. And though annoying noise may sound like a minor distraction, Leesman found it can have huge knock-on effects when it comes to employee wellbeing:
- Noise has an adverse effect on concentration and productivity,
- Each distraction leads to reduced concentration for 10-15 minutes, and
- Noise creates a negative impact on general wellbeing.
Improve acoustics for a health boost
Optimising acoustics will reduce noise and make it easier for employees to hear each other, so they can connect and collaborate. Good quality acoustics lead to a substantial boost in productivity, while also reducing distractions and stress by up to a third. This results in happier employees who report in sick less often.
The ceiling is great place to start with acoustics. For example, Rockfon Blanka® comes in various forms, each designed to meet the various acoustic challenges of different spaces and rooms. Rockfon Blanka uses an innovative material that excels in sound absorption, which reduces echo in the workplace, and it can also include special sound-insulating dB products that ensure privacy in meeting rooms.
Increase natural light and save on energy
The Leesman study also found that nearly half of all employees are dissatisfied with their access to natural light, which is vital to cognitive function and wellbeing. Rockfon Blanka has a smooth, matt, super-white surface with high light reflection and light diffusion. This produces a bright, comfortable indoor environment that draws daylight further into a space and also generates energy savings.
