The fit out industry’s role in creating connected workplaces

By April Lara

July 24, 2024

Photo of workplace

Today, the modern workplace thrives on seamless connectivity. A recent survey by Cellnex UK revealed the lack of connectivity in the workplace. The survey showed that this is affecting 70% of hybrid workers forcing most employees to leave their office building to make a phone call. It also revealed decreased productivity and increased stress levels.

The survey found the problem areas at the workplace with weaker mobile signals, such as the stairwells, meeting rooms, and communal spaces. It also showed that slow internet speeds, weak mobile network signals, and problem areas at the workplace are the top connectivity issues being faced today. It showed that 27% of those experience these issues on average two to three days per week.

This connectivity crisis isn’t only frustrating, but it also demonstrably impacts productivity with studies showing a direct link between poor signal and decreased work efficiency.

In 2023, the UK government announced their goal to deliver nationwide coverage of standalone 5G to all populated areas by 2030. This involves putting wireless connectivity at the centre of new and existing infrastructure to ensure that the infrastructure being built will fit the digital age.

The reality is that existing office buildings usually have significant signal weaknesses within their structure. While the national 5G rollout is a positive step, it primarily addresses outdoor connectivity. This is where the fit out industry comes in.

According to the British Council for Offices, the UK boasts millions of square metres of office space—a vast landscape ripe for improvement. The fit out industry specialises in transforming these spaces, and with a focus on connectivity, it can guarantee workplaces are equipped for the digital age.

However, older buildings have thick concrete walls, complicated layouts with obstructions, and only a few electric sockets for plugging Wi-Fi routers. It’s safe to say that these older infrastructures interfered with Wi-Fi and broadband, which can lead to reduced network performance and connectivity issues.

This is why it’s necessary for in-building connectivity solutions in designing new buildings or retrofitting existing workplaces with Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) for improved cellular coverage.

Aside from DAS, a smart cabling structure is also necessary to ensure businesses support high-speed internet needs. Expert fit out companies today also strategically place Wi-Fi access points to optimise coverage based on the specific layout of the workplace to ensure a strong signal all the time.

Better connectivity at the workplace isn’t only about productivity. Strong, reliable connections can also boost employee well-being. Investing in better connectivity will help businesses create a more positive work environment that cultivates better employee satisfaction. In a competitive job market, a well-connected workspace becomes a valuable asset for attracting and retaining top talent.

With the help of the fit out industry, companies can create future-proofed, well-connected workplaces that empower employees and drive success.

Bookings for Fit Out Industry Awards UK are now open. The deadline for entries into this year’s Fit Out Industry Awards Ireland is fast approaching. Download the entry guide here.