POC System Answers
Experts answer your questions about logistics, system implementation, workflows and more to help you capitalize on your dynamic space.
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Proximity Bias in the Workplace: What It Is & How to Prevent It
While proximity bias isn't new, the remote working landscape post-pandemic has made it more prevalent. Proximity bias describes the tendency of colleagues and managers to work more closely with people who are physically nearby, possibly neglecting those that work remotely. It contributes to the stigma that remote work is less productive, leading remote workers to feel pressured to come into the office and experience prejudice when other employees are hired or promoted. However, according to Hubstaff's research, remote workers can be more productive than office-based workers by 13%-35%. Influencing factors include a quiet and less distracting home environment, while the flexibility of remote working reduces stress and improves mental health. Tips to Prevent Proximity Bias With so many companies employing remote workers or permanently implementing hybrid models, it's essential to mitigate any proximity bias in the workplace to prevent instances of favoritism, inequality, and unhappy employees. Consider applying the following prevention measures: Create awareness The first step is to identify any instances of proximity bias. Start a conversation with employees to learn of any occurrences where it happened.Communicate inclusively Any communication to employees must be inclusive and accessible. Ensure all important verbal communication is followed up by a written version to include employees who weren't physically present. Implement technological solutions Find and implement software that enhances remote or hybrid working models and allows for functional, collaborative working (e.g., video conferencing, instant messaging platforms, cloud-based software).Prioritize employee well-being Regularly check in with all employees to monitor their progress and discuss any challenges they're facing.Evaluate performance fairly Establish a merit system that's objective and quantifiable, thereby creating a culture of trust and transparency. Bottom Line Proximity bias can become a big problem in the workplace, turning the environment toxic. By addressing and preventing proximity bias, employee satisfaction, loyalty, and productivity can increase even more. ■ Let POC System help you manage proximity bias by optimizing your office space
Asked a month ago
Hot Desking vs. Hoteling: 3 Key Differences You Should Consider
Hoteling and hot desking are two popular ways to save office space, especially in the hybrid working model. Both methods move away from the assigned seating approach of a traditional workplace, opting to rely on desk availability instead. While these terms are often used interchangeably, it's important to understand the difference so you can implement the method best suited to your organization. 1. Accessibility Hot desking has high accessibility because it works on a first-come-first-serve basis and allows people to sit at any available desk. Hoteling is less accessible. It requires employees to reserve a desk in advance, usually through hoteling software. 2. Flexibility Hot desking offers great flexibility. The freedom to choose any seat means that employees from different departments or industries can sit together and collaborate. This is especially relevant in coworking spaces. Hoteling can be limiting because employees have access to the space they've booked only. They must stick to the schedule and can't move to another unoccupied space to join a colleague. 3. Urgency Hot desking can provide workspace on short notice—provided all the desks aren't full when employees arrive. While hoteling guarantees an employee a workstation (if they've booked in advance), it doesn't lend itself toward impromptu meetings or emergencies. ■ What are hot desking best practices? Here's how to optimize hot desking for employee satisfaction Automate Your Seating Processes with POC System Although hot desking and hoteling are very similar, their main difference is how employees can access workstations. Whether you want to give your employees the freedom to choose their desks or if you want a more structured system, consider automating this process. POC System's electronic seating booking system can be accessed by employees directly and will automatically update while capturing and analyzing usage data. ■ Want to try the seating allocation app for yourself? Request a demo
Asked a month ago
Ultrasonic vs. PIR Sensor: Which Is Best for Your Workplace?
Are you looking for simple ways to optimize your office space? Perhaps you want to start by automating certain processes, so you're looking to install an indoor motion detection system to control temperature, lighting, and ventilation. Your research has led you to sensor-based technologies in the workplace, specifically PIR and ultrasonic sensors. Both are occupancy sensors and adjust the office parameters based on the number of people in the space, so how do you choose? ■ Sensors contribute to a more sustainable workspace: Consider the importance of a green workspace PIR Sensors PIR (passive infrared) sensors measure the infrared radiation emitted from an object. The sensor has 2 slots. When inactive, both slots have the same reading (e.g., the temperature of the room). The sensor is activated when one slot's reading changes (e.g., a person walking past the sensor). PIR sensors are easily mounted, affordable, and use little power. Their range varies depending on whether it's an indoor (10 inches to 65 feet) or outdoor sensor (30-500 feet). Consider using these sensors in an open-plan office or where individual desk space takes precedence (e.g., coworking spaces). Ultrasonic Sensors Ultrasonic sensors use ultrasonic sound waves to measure the distance to a specific object. It has a transmitter that creates sound and a receiver that detects its echo, thereby using the time it takes the sound to travel to determine distance. Through proximity detection, ultrasonic sensors can determine a space's "normal" condition and registers motion when this condition changes. These sensors are reliable and versatile with a varying range of a few inches to 70 feet. Consider using ultrasonic sensors if your office contains many structures (e.g., cubicles) as these sensors are effective at detecting motion around corners. Bottom Line When deciding on a suitable sensor for your workplace, there are a few factors to consider: Make sure the sensor has all of the necessary features to achieve what you want Choose a sensor within your budgetCheck the sensor's usability and how complicated it will be to install and use Ultimately, the choice depends on your organizational needs. Don't invest in equipment that's not aligned with your needs.
Asked a month ago
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