Offices in the home must require adequate work space, light, telephone service, power and temperature control, not to mention adequate physical ergonomics related to furnishing and fixtures. Physical ergonomics include concerns like workers using television trays, saw horses and an old door for work surfaces, inadequate seating and poor lighting. It's easy to control the environment of an office but most workers are not willing to invest in the appropriate types of office constructs in their homes. Safety issues aside, employers and employees have a challenging road ahead. Additional concerns include supervision, productivity, personal interaction and relationships, professionalism, information exchange and, lastly, insurance.
Interior design faces a new opportunity for problem solving.
And with this will come clear ergonomic benefits to the interior design profession. First, however, the profession will need to collaborate and work hand in hand with corporations and governments to provide responsive and sophisticated solutions for the office of the future. Tony Waller , IIDA, is the national program manager for accessibility for U.S. General Services Administration.