Aligning the workplace to an agility-enabling culture

As discussed earlier, the physical workplace is one of the few variables which directly impacts the culture of an enterprise and is also a reflection of the culture of the company. People sitting behind closed doors and in cubicles, formally dressed and speaking in hushed voices, indicates a very different culture compared to groups of workers sitting in close proximity around large tables and where there is a constant din of voices.

Assuming that the firm is embracing values aligned with agility, it is critical that the workplace be aligned to support those values. Otherwise, the workplace can become a huge impediment in the values becoming a part of the culture, for example, managers and leaders sitting behind closed doors, with the cabin size directly correlated to seniority in the hierarchy is not a conducive work environment when the enterprise is trying to imbibe transparency, openness, and equality as values.

The following are some...