An academic study has found that office plants may improve office productivity by up to 15%. The research was carried out by academics from the University of Exeter, the University of Queensland and the University of Groningen in the Netherlands.

Although the research was the first study of its kind, previous laboratory tests had pointed towards this conclusion. The research compared real life ‘lean’ and ‘green’ offices – those with clean and tidy desks, and those with plants on desks.

The study found that green offices could see up to 15% increased staff productivity due to improved employee concentration, workplace satisfaction and perceived improvements in air quality.

Co-author Professor Alex Haslam of the University of Queensland commented on the findings, and what they mean for office designers. ‘The ‘lean’ philosophy has been influential across a wide range of domains. Our research questions this widespread conviction that less is more – sometimes less is just less.’

Marlon Nieuwenhuis, who lead the research, also stated the results of this research should change the way we work. ‘This conclusion[...] identifies a pathway to a more enjoyable, more comfortable and a more profitable form of office-based working.’

Office plants aren’t an expensive investment, and considering the apparently significant benefits they bring to both employees and employers, it seems that this is an obvious improvement that all offices can make.

If you’d like to improve your office environment with more than just greenery, contact us at Staples Advantage to stock up on office furniture, facilities and stationery.

 

October 7th 2014 | Back to Industry Insights