An Integral Tool for the Diagnostic Evaluation of Non-Territorial Offices

Nowadays, many organizations have innovative workplaces with desk-sharing and desk-rotation. The main objectives are 1) to improve organizational performance by better communication, and 2) cost reduction by the more efficient use of accommodation and other facilities. Although some research has been conducted into the use and experience of new offices, there is a need for sound data about the overall effects on organizational performance and user needs. Commissioned by the government, the Center for People and Buildings in Delft has developed an instrument for an ex ante or ex post evaluation of non-territorial offices. The tool has been based on an extensive literature review and is being tested in a number of case studies. The tool can be used to indicate problems in the present situation, to evaluate the effects of design interventions, and in support of decisions to change the physical working environment. Worldwide, there is an ongoing trend towards non-traditional work settings and locations , such as shared assigned offices, non-territorial offices, hotelling, office swapping, and home-based telework (Duffy, 1996; Lang et al, 1998; Van der Voordt, 2003). In non-territorial offices, employees are encouraged to work in a variety of work locations and settings throughout the building, based on their work tasks. These offices are organized around rapid developments in ICT (fast computers; laptops; mobile phones; intranet; internet; digital filing systems), organizational changes (less hierarchical; more open