Embracing the Future: A Bold Move to Modern Workspaces
Established in 1962, Deutsche Leasing AG has been a leasing trailblazer in Germany. For several years, neotares has been a valued partner, now assisting the company in the implementation of an entirely new workplace. But let's rewind...
In 2010, Deutsche Leasing made the transition to its revamped office spaces and a newly constructed headquarter in Bad Homburg. For six decades, the office layout adhered to a closed plan. However, now, we are partnering with Deutsche Leasing as they take their first stride toward a hybrid working model. In a designated pilot area, the initial hybrid workstations have been introduced, featuring a desk-sharing concept. The pilot initiative, launched successfully in June of this year on a segment of the third floor, has garnered enthusiastic approval from our employees.
Employees expressing their views
To let the employees of Deutsche Leasing adapt to their beautiful new workplace and the changes it required, the company was advised by neotares first off in communication and planning. Our tasks included, for example, producing emails, intranet items, comprehensive FAQs and creating striking explanatory videos.
The reorientation of the office space was accompanied by a new strategic approach. The hybrid working method combines the advantages of mobile and home office work stations and gives employees an opportunity to interact face-to-face with their colleagues. Combining closed-plan office units and an open landscape with space for chance encounters, opportunities to withdraw and communicate were created. This produces a diverse work environment that appeals to various different user demands.
Home zones create space for individual needs
In the new concept, the classic system of personal offices for team leaders and employees is done away with. Instead, for each department, employees are provided with so-called “home zones”. These are a combination of individual and multi-person offices set in a modern, open-plan environment with a desk-sharing concept and clean desk policy. Thanks to a flexible booking system, employees can choose between a workplace in a calm or more communicative office within the department, or in the open-plan area.
Various team room support communicative and collaborative work – including hybrid exchange. For example, in a team room, stand-up meetings can promote efficient exchange and thus lead to rapid decision-making. In addition, the various, differently equipped office pods offer a retreat for employees to take calls, recuperate or engage in brief face-to-face meetings. Particularly the open kitchenette becomes a central locus for communications within the open-plan office environment, with lounge furniture and moss wall decorations creating a welcoming space for employees to engage in casual conversations and relaxation.
Embracing Change
Deutsche Leasing is charting a fresh course, incorporating not only an open-plan design but also a vibrant color scheme in refreshing, bright tones. The persistent challenges posed by the existing building structure are met with daring wall designs, adding a distinctive touch to Deutsche Leasing's approach. Color-coded silhouettes bring vibrancy to corridors, team rooms, and the central meeting point, aiding in navigation throughout the building.
Encouraging Initial Feedback
The bold move towards a new work environment has already paid off: Employee reactions to the pilot areas are overwhelmingly positive. In the next phase, the concept will be fine-tuned and likely expanded to additional areas. We will keep you updated.