Pervasive technologies for smart workplaces: A workplace efficiency solution for office design and building management from an occupier’s perspective

Abstract

Corporate Real Estate (CRE) Management and office design are increasingly considered as a strategic resource for developing businesses and competitive advantage. Measuring the added value of CRE, as well as managing smart workplaces are an issue for academics and professionals. We consider that pervasive technologies offer potential for increasing workplace efficiency on a long-term basis. In order to gain insight of workplace and building management in practice from an occupier’s perspective, Colliers International France designed its Paris office as a “living lab”. We implemented a work environment based on desk-sharing and a set of activity-based workspaces. We also deployed Schneider Electric’s WorkPlace Efficiency (WPE) solution aimed at monitoring the occupancy rate of our building as well as at supporting the effective use of shared office resources and employees’ wellbeing. The paper presents our experience of this solution in the context of our Paris office and discusses its potential for building smart and sustainable workplaces.