RTO Basics: The Simplest Design Solutions to Encourage Employees to Show Up
Before you invest in that fancy espresso bar or game room for your office, let’s talk about why your employees might not even show up to use them.
While these may not seem like the most exciting or innovative aspects of office design, they form the critical foundation of workplace satisfaction. Just as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs demonstrates, we can’t reach higher levels of engagement and innovation without first establishing these fundamental elements.
The Foundation of Workplace Satisfaction
As leaders push for return-to-office (RTO), many are missing a crucial truth: You can’t expect employees to innovate, collaborate, or perform at their peak when their basic needs aren’t met. Looking at Maslow’s hierarchy, workplace satisfaction starts with the physiological and safety layers—both of which have evolved dramatically post-pandemic.
Physiological Needs in the Modern Workplace
The baseline isn’t just desks and WiFi anymore. Today’s workforce requires:
Ergonomic workstations that adapt to individual needs
Technology infrastructure enabling seamless collaboration, particularly with remote teams
Natural light, comfortable temperature, and proper acoustic conditions
Flexible spaces that support various work styles
Safety and Security: The Overlooked Essentials
But here’s where many organizations fall short—safety and security. Employees need to feel secure without feeling confined. Modern safety includes:
Professional front-desk staff (yes, it’s time to bring back a knowledgeable and friendly presence at the entry)
Thoughtful access control that welcomes guests and maintains security without creating awkward experiences
Comprehensive emergency procedures, including earthquake preparedness and family reunification plans
Enhanced air filtration and ventilation systems
Clean, well-stocked, and conveniently located restrooms
Employees who feel physically secure and physiologically comfortable can focus on work rather than survival.
The Cost of Ignoring the Basics
The real cost isn’t in providing these foundations—it’s in ignoring them. Every day your team worries about their security or struggles with inadequate workspace is a day of lost innovation and missed opportunities.
Thoughtful Design: The Key to Success
The key to successfully implementing these elements lies in thoughtful design. Each component—from the placement of workstations to the integration of security measures—requires careful consideration of both functionality and user experience. It’s about creating spaces that not only meet these fundamental needs but do so in a way that enhances rather than hinders the work experience.
I welcome the opportunity to continue this conversation! Contact us if you’d like to discuss how we can transform your workplace into an environment where employees want to be.
Next Post:
Stay tuned for my next post, where we’ll explore the next level of workplace design—creating spaces that foster a genuine sense of community and belonging in the office.
