User-Driven Occupant Satisfaction and Space Utilization Tool for the New Hybrid Office Work Paradigm

Abstract

Hybrid-style work has become the default model of office operation in many industries. Estimates of up to 74% of US companies are switching to or practicing an at-home and in-person hybrid work style (Kugler et.al., 2022). Hybrid work provides organizations and workers with considerable savings on time, transportation, maintenance, and energy costs. With hybrid work becoming a multi-industry standard, the utilization of a workspace optimization and scheduling tool will allow companies to organize and improve their coordination and productivity; while cutting down on their office’s carbon footprint, size, and cost. Relatedly, “hoteling” is an office scheduling strategy that has workers change desks and spaces on a daily basis, creating a more flexible office that allows workers access to a range of amenities and spaces. The thesis proposes a system that offers an open-source algorithm for improved office space planning, utilization, and continuous worker feedback to guide facility planning and operations decisions. Multiple sorting agents will be developed in order to prioritize different desired outcomes (productivity or coordination) or to provide recommendations to appropriately size space while improving worker experience. These agents will be tested in a range of office staffing, scheduling, and future planned utilization scenarios. The program will also provide insight to building managers, company owners, and architects on the use and preferences of different office spaces and amenities.