Working Practices

Question 1

Describe features of an ergonomic office environment.

6 Marks

Answer 1

• Adjustable office furniture/computer screens which will allow staff to work comfortably – and limit back injury - eye strain
• The positioning of all desk items is important so that they are at the optimum position for working
• A spacious workplace with minimal clutter ensure there is enough storage space
• The arrangement of desks and chairs should allow ease of movement
• The noise levels in the organisation can be controlled perhaps with the ability to go to quiet areas to concentrate . . . this will allow for greater productivity and increased motivation
• The office temperature could be regulated by staff for example via air conditioning and heaters
• The environment should be dynamic and allow for teamwork to be carried out – additional break out areas when required
• Certain colours are associated with calming moods/uplifting and energy
• Lighting can be via natural light/and good quality daylight bulbs – positive effect on mood. Eye fatigue and headaches can be caused by poor lighting
• Anti-glare screens on computer can prevent headaches

Question 2

Compare the features of a cellular office layout with an open-plan layout within an organisation.

3 Marks

Answer 2

• An open-plan layout may be a difficult environment in which to work without distraction whereas a cellular layout may give employees more privacy and a less distracting work environment.
• An open-plan layout may mean that employees have limited personal space in which to organise work whereas a cellular layout may offer a work environment which is used solely by one employee and can be organised to suit.
• An open-plan layout may mean that some equipment is shared and privacy to work on confidential work is reduced whereas a cellular layout will offer employees the opportunity to engage in confidential work using equipment based in their own work space.

Question 3

Describe the benefits of flexi-time to the organisation.

3 Marks

Answer 3

• Can reduce or eliminate punctuality problems and the need to discipline staff for being late
• Helps attract and retain staff.
• Can help with opening the organisation for longer hours.

Question 4

Outline 4 advantages for employees working from home.

4 Marks

Answer 4

• Saves time/expense associated with commuting to and from work.
• Employee can work around other commitments/can choose when to work.
• They may find it less stressful working from home.
• It might lead to increased productivity, as there are no distractions.

Question 5

Discuss the pros and cons of introducing an open-plan office layout.

6 Marks

Answer 5

Benefits -

• Promotes team-working and the sharing of ideas between employees
• New ideas are formed
• Less support needed from management
• Improved morale/motivation
• Sharing of devices such as printers leads to lower expenditure
• Ease of supervision (for management)
• Can identify employees needing more support
Economical use of space
• Flexible layout which can be adapted

COSTS
• Noise levels can be loud with more than 1 employee working in the space
• Lack of privacy for handling client information
• Organisation often has to build separate meeting rooms
• Cannot customise lighting/heating
• Lack of personalisation can lower employee morale
• More opportunity for distractions and interruptions
• Can disrupt work flow/productivity