The way businesses work in Brisbane is changing, with flexible and hybrid working becoming more common. Organisations that once adhered to the model of fixed desks from nine to five are reconsidering how, where, and when their people work. Increasingly, businesses are exploring the agile workplace model, which gives employees greater flexibility in how they use office space.
But what is an agile workplace? In this blog, we will explore the key traits of agile workplaces, the benefits they offer, and what an agile workplace looks like in practice. We will also discuss which amenities you can expect from a premium agile workspace and what to look for when evaluating your options.
What Is an Agile Workplace?
An agile workplace is a flexible work environment designed to support different working styles, team structures and tasks. Rather than assigning every employee a permanent desk, an agile setup offers a range of work settings. These can include quiet focus areas, collaborative zones, private meeting rooms, and open coworking lounges.
Agile working is not the same as remote working, although the two can be used together. Agile working involves flexible ways of organising work and using office workspaces.
Remote working, on the other hand, refers to carrying out work away from the usual workplace, such as from home or another location. Organisations may combine agile and remote working as part of a broader hybrid working approach, with employees dividing their time between the office and other locations.
What Types of Spaces Make Up an Agile Workplace?
An agile workplace can include several different types of spaces, each designed to support different work activities and professional needs.
- Private Office Suites: For teams or businesses that need privacy, consistency, and a professional base, private office suites offer fully furnished, lockable spaces within a larger flexible workspace. These suit everyone from small teams to established businesses looking for dedicated offices.
- Meeting Rooms: An agile workplace may include professional meeting spaces that can be booked when needed. These spaces can be used for client presentations, team workshops, video conferences, and strategy sessions.
- Dedicated Desks: In an agile workplace, you can find dedicated desks for professionals who want the structure of a permanent workspace without committing to a private office. These desks are exclusively yours and ready when you arrive, so you do not need to search for a spot or set up equipment each morning.
The Amenities That Define a Quality Agile Workspace
Beyond the physical spaces, an agile workplace also depends on the facilities, technology, and amenities that support different ways of working. Here are some of the features that a high-quality agile workplace should have:
Plug-and-Play Workspaces
Workspaces are ready to use from day one, with essentials such as reliable internet and ergonomic furniture already in place.
Reception Services
A professional reception team creates a strong first impression for visiting clients. They can also assist with day-to-day administrative tasks such as handling mail and packages.
Electric Sit-Stand Desks
Electric sit-stand desks allow users to alternate between sitting and standing during the workday, providing flexibility in how office workers use their workspace.
Business-Grade Internet
Reliable, high-speed internet is essential for businesses that depend on consistent connectivity. An agile workspace may support activities such as video conferencing, file transfers, and real-time collaboration, making it an important part of modern business operations.
24/7 Access and Security
Flexible teams may not always work during traditional office hours. Where available, 24/7 secure access gives members greater flexibility to use the workspace on their own terms.
Access to Coworking Lounges
A coworking lounge provides a shared area within a flexible workspace where members can work outside of their dedicated office or desk.
Flexible Lease Terms
One of the practical benefits of a flexible workspace can be greater flexibility in membership terms. Shorter agreements or flexible plans may allow businesses to adjust their workspace arrangements as their needs change, without committing to a traditional long-term office lease.
Basement Parking
Basement parking, where available, can make arriving at and leaving the workplace more convenient and may reduce the need to search for parking nearby.
Printing Allowance
A printing allowance can be a useful inclusion for professionals and teams that work with physical documents. Access to printing and scanning facilities within the workspace can make it easier to handle paperwork without having to arrange these services elsewhere.
Networking Events and Community
Networking events create opportunities to meet other professionals in the workspace. For smaller businesses and freelancers, these activities can facilitate professional connections that may be less accessible when working alone from home.
Health, Fitness, and On-Site Dining
Some premium flexible workspaces offer amenities that extend beyond the traditional office. Access to fitness facilities, outdoor areas, and on-site dining options, such as cafés and restaurants, can add convenience to the working day.
What To Look For When Evaluating an Agile Workspace in Brisbane
Not every flexible workspace offers the same setup, services, or level of flexibility. When comparing your options, it is worth asking a few questions:
- Are the terms flexible, or do long minimum commitments apply?
- What is included in the base price, and what adds additional charges?
- Does the space offer the types of work areas your team actually needs?
- Is the workspace accessible by public transport, and is parking available?
- What level of administrative and on-site support is provided?
Location is another important consideration when choosing a workspace in Brisbane. A convenient location can make it easier for employees, clients, and visitors to access the workspace, while also supporting your team’s day-to-day commute.
Key Takeaway
So, what is an agile workplace? It is an office structure that supports a modern, flexible, and collaborative approach to work. It allows employees greater choice in how they approach their work, with the potential to support productivity, creativity and employee satisfaction.
Mobo Co offers a range of flexible workspace options, including private offices, dedicated desks and meeting rooms, allowing businesses to choose a setup that suits their needs and their teams’ work styles. Book a personalised tour to explore our spaces in person and discover how Mobo Co can support a more flexible and agile approach to work.