Affordable ways to create a work environment that engages employees

A company’s work environment really affects employee engagement and productivity but only only one in four U.S. workers are in optimal workplace environments, according to Gensler’s 2013 U.S. Workplace Survey of 2,035 workers.

In an effort to create happy, engaged employees, companies are beginning to place more emphasis on creating a work environment that fosters engagement, productivity and innovation. Here are just a few ways employers can makeover the workspace to help employees work effectively:

1. Forget open-door, adopt open space.

Workplace collaboration is key to spreading and developing innovative ideas. Erecting barriers between employees (R.I.P cubicles), while intended to improve individual success, can hurt workflow and communication. Tear down those barriers in favor of open office space.

An open office space makes it easy for employees to interact more frequently, which is one of the best ways to encourage collaboration. Increased communication builds a sense of camaraderie among workers, fostering teamwork and improving the flow of information.