Agile Workspace vs. Activity-Based Workspace: Key Differences and Examples

And as technology evolves, the modern workplace continues to be a place that champions productivity and flexibility. While agile workspaces and activity-based workspaces sound similar, there are several distinct differences between the two. This article explores the core distinctions between agile workspaces and activity-based workspaces, as well as a few examples of these work styles in action.

What is an agile workspace?

An agile workspace is defined as a business that has implemented specific strategic decisions that enable flexible working, in and out of the physical workspace. In other words, agile workspaces enable employees the freedom to work in whatever way is conducive to their maximum productivity based on their individual needs and work style.

A study from Zenefits found that 73% of employees said flexible work arrangements increased their satisfaction at work. Additionally, 78% of employees say flexible work arrangements make them more productive.

Maintaining flexibility and agility, whether employees are back in the office or working from home, is critical to employee happiness and wellbeing.

What is an activity-based workspace?

An activity-based workplace (ABW) is a space within an organization that embodies the work it’s designed for. These types of workspaces encourage employees to move throughout the office all day, which can positively impact productivity, engagement, and overall job satisfaction.

Activity-based working includes areas of the office made for specific tasks. For example, your office might have soundproof booths for calls or deep independent work, or open, shared spaces for more collaborative work and employee relationship building.

Activity-based workspaces are also a great way to cut costs. A study from the British Council for Offices (BCO) found a significant cut in operational expenses—€10M per year—when shifting to activity-based workspaces.

Creating dedicated spaces for varying work-related activities optimizes your space to the fullest. With activity-based workspaces, every square foot is used with purpose.

What are the differences between agile and activity-based workspaces?

While these two terms are similar, they serve two different purposes.

• ​Agile workspaces refer to flexibility both in and out of the physical office.
• ​Activity-based workspace refers to the literal spaces used for different tasks.

For example, a company that allows their employees to choose whether they work from home or in the office (agile workspace) and a cluster of desks meant for quiet, focused work. The two go hand-in-hand and represent the evolving modern workplace.

However, while they are different, they both yield several benefits to the workplace as a whole, including:

• ​Increasing employee wellbeing and productivity
• ​Reducing costs on building expenses like real estate, desk space, and other overhead costs
• ​Optimizing your space for ultimate performance

To incorporate both into the workplace, consider what your employees need most to do their best work. For more face-to-face collaboration, make physically-distanced shared spaces more prominent. For focused work, prioritize quiet spaces. Figuring out the best use of your space may come with some trial and error.

Four examples of agile and activity-based workspaces in action

Here’s a look at four companies who have implemented agile workspaces or activity-based workspaces for inspiration.

Agile workspace examples

Dell

Dell considers flexible work to be part of its company culture. Even before the pandemic, Dell adopted a generous remote work policy, enabling employees to work where they felt most productive. Mohammed Chahdi, Director, Head of Americas HR operations, stated, “Work flexibility allows team members options for how, where, and when to do their work. These options create a collaborative work environment between the needs of the company and the team member. A flexible workforce is just as productive (if not more so) as the traditional office model—reducing the global carbon footprint, and helping individuals balance their work life and their personal life. Bottom line: it’s an advantage and a benefit that helps Dell be successful.”

Facebook

Facebook is one of the major tech companies adopting a flexible work policy. Not only did Facebook allow employees to work from home until July 2021, but they also provided employees with an extra $1,000 bonus for home office equipment.

Activity-based workspace examples

Interpolis

The Interpolis office is an example of an activity-based workspace. Complete with a cafe and restaurant, bike stands, energy-efficient lighting, accessibility features, and more, the Interpolis office center is designed for varying activities, like independent work, collaboration, and connection.

ANZ Bank

ANZ Bank, headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, implemented the “Playbox” project, which gave each department different technology and furniture to fit its needs. Unlike most activity-based workspaces, ANZ’s Playbox project doesn’t require employees to move about or change locations. Rather, the workspace itself changes to fit the task. After implementing Playbox, ANZ saw nearly a $50 million increase in revenue, as employees were able to make decisions faster in a more conducive environment for productivity.

Flexibility is an essential part of the modern workspace

Agile and activity-based working are similar work styles, yet they have their own unique purposes that play significant roles in the modern workplace. Agile working speaks to flexibility inside and outside of the office, whereas activity-based working mainly refers to the in-office experience.

Both work styles can foster a collaborative, productive, and positive work environment for employees. The above activity-based work and agile work examples can help guide the implementation of the best style for your office.