A few years ago, the Uhlmann Executive Board had the idea to take first steps for a new, modern working concept and to initiate a pilot project at the BED BusinessPark Ehingen Donau. The project was kicked off in the second half of 2018. Some ten colleagues from the participating departments formed the project team for the “new working environment”, led by Mr. Meingast.
Workshopping for new workspace concepts
Our colleagues first traveled to Böblingen to gain a first impression of possible workspace concepts at a partner company there. Divided into two groups, they participated in various workshops. Back home in Laupheim, ideas were collated and first concepts drafted, assessed, and tried out. Uhlmann took the final step on October 14, 2019 and gave our digital lifestyle new impetus. In an inauguration ceremony with the Executive Board, the new, modern workspace was officially opened for the employees.
No rolling file cabinets: A skeptical start in the new working environment
Even though positive energy and anticipation was felt from the start, many were initially somewhat uncertain about what they should make of their new working area. It was strange suddenly not to have a fixed workplace with a phone and rolling file cabinet. Personal things, such as family photos or one’s own coffee mug, were also lacking. The desk was unusually empty, no longer cluttered with piles of paper. “Lacks familiarity, somehow”, was among the feedback.
Getting to know and, in particular, appreciate the new environment
On the other hand, the opportunity had been created to enable specific selection of a workplace best suited to the task at hand. The options are diverse. Somebody needing peace and quiet to work seeks a vacant workplace in the “focus room”, where no phone calls are allowed. Anyone wishing to speak at length with a customer retreats to a phone booth, so others are not disturbed.
Relaxing and working
Relaxation is possible in the lounge area, but also team brainstorming, for which the writable walls can be used. Furthermore, various rooms are available for spontaneous meetings without the need to reserve in advance.
What do our colleagues say to the new workspace?
Manuel Ye, Project Manager Digital Solutions
How does it feel to work in your new environment?
It feels good. We had a relatively old system before. Now we are working in a cool, modern environment that decentralizes work somewhat.
Do you like the fact that we are all on the same floor in an open workspace?
Yes, certainly. Communication between colleagues is definitely much better as a result and the contact is more intensive.
Where are the disadvantages in your opinion?
The rules concerning eating and drinking. I also think that the “premium” coffee maker could be improved. A set of standard equipment at every desk would have been good, because you never know where people sit each day.
How would you make better use of the area? What is still lacking?
I think a larger kitchen would be nice, so that we can cook together if we want. It would also be good to have chips in the tabletops. By scanning these, we would then know where the members of a team are sitting.
Would you return to the old system?
No. It’s definitely better the way things are now.
Stephan Wigh de Alencar, Project Manager Digital Solutions
What were your thoughts when you heard that you and your team were the first at Uhlmann to try out the new concept?
I was pleased that changes were being made. During the conversion work, I often sneaked up to the third floor to see how my new working area was shaping up.
What do you make of having no landline? Is that negative for you?
No way. I use the call forwarding function and have always used my headset anyway. Basically, I now have more space and fewer cables on my desk.
What about the idea that you must lock away your laptop, keyboard, mouse, etc. every day?
Personally, I have no problem with that. There are lockers for us to stow away our things after work. No doubt, even larger lockers would have been better, but as long as it is not a problem to store the keyboard diagonally, the size is okay.
What do you think about the various workrooms / areas? Do you use them frequently? Are some of them less useful than originally thought?
I think I have used all the spaces so far, the project zones the most. Others also use the focus zones and phone booths. I haven’t been in the “cube” yet.
Would you like to return to the old system?
No, definitely not.
Gina Braun, Assistance Digital Solutions
How did you feel on the first days in the new office?
I thought, wow. It feels good to have different areas to retreat to depending on the work. The focus room is a genuine gain for silent and concentrated work. I also highly value the various options of gathering for a short, stand-up meeting in the cube or the arrival zone.
What are the positive effects of the change in your opinion?
The fact that the work is cool, and that I am happy and glad to work in this team. To my mind, working at a desk that I like, and in an environment that I find modern and work-friendly belong to the best results of this project.
What would you like to alter?
Unfortunately, I don’t like the carpet at all. I know that it is a matter of taste, but I find it antiquated and unhygienic. I also think that the desks should have small, very narrow drawers in which to place a basic selection of pens and pencils, etc.
Would you prefer to return to the old system?
No.
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