Steelcase and Microsoft: Five Collaborative Spaces For Creative Work

Both Steelcase and Microsoft have researched and examined new avenues to develop a number of technology-forward spaces. Exploring creativity, technology, and furniture, the companies have concluded that all three aspects can be integrated to project a successful front.

It was found that the whole process of creativity called for diversity in Steelcase and Microsoft work modes, along with different kinds of technology, such as Microsoft's Surface Hub, which was an interactive whiteboard that could be used in collaboration. In order to optimize creative thought, designers need to effect changes in the workplace that would be able to integrate those who worked in solitude as well as in bigger groups. Such settings called for "inspiring, high-tech spaces" that could be made for the worker.

"The problems people face at work today are much more complex than they used to be," says Sara Armbruster, vice president of strategy, research, and new business innovation for Steelcase, "They require a new creative way of thinking and a very different work process." She was commenting on the need for collaboration in Steelcase and Microsoft.

Whenever technology and space are looked at as separate from each other, rather than holistic entities, they tend to create issues in the workplaces, noted experts in Steelcase and Microsoft. "Most employees are still working with outdated technology and in places that are rooted in the past, which makes it difficult for them to work in new, creative ways," said Bob O'Donnell, president, founder, and chief analyst at California-based technology research and consulting firm TECHnalysis Research.

Another announcement made by Microsoft was that a few Steelcase dealers are now "authorized resellers" of Microsoft's Surface Hub in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Germany. Both Steelcase and Microsoft are developing high-tech workplace solutions that have been created on Microsoft's Azure IoT technology. This will offer businesses with analytics that can upgrade workplaces and solutions in order to open the space for employees to locate Five initial Creative Spaces. Every space has been made to stoke diverse modes of creative thinking, according to Itpnet.

These are all being exhibited at the Steelcase WorkLife Center in New York City. Such spaces, including Focus Studio, Duo Studio, Ideation Hub, Maker Commons, and Respite Room bring together Microsoft Surface devices along with Steelcase architecture and furniture.

The Focus Studio eases individual creative work, even as it allows shifting to dual collaboration. The Duo Studio is designed basically for just two to create together and work shoulder-to-shoulder. Even as it supports individual work, it also offers a "break-out area" that can pave the way for quick team meetings. Finally, the Ideation Hub is designed for active participation from all as well as equal opportunity to pitch into co-creation, refining and sharing ideas.

YouTube/Surface