News & Trends – Contract Workplaces

By dvivoli on Feb 26th, 2025

Multidisciplinary Collaboration: More than the Sum of Its Parts

In a world marked by globalization, technological advances, cultural diversity, consumer behavior changes, and environmental, social, and economic challenges, tackling complex problems requires a collaborative approach that brings together diverse specialties, making multidisciplinary teams crucial.

While multidisciplinary collaboration has historical roots, its strategic adoption has solidified primarily in the last century, especially in sectors like health, technology, education, and scientific research. This approach broadens the range of solutions and enriches creativity by combining distinct knowledge areas to better understand and address challenges. The reasoning patterns developed in each profession seem to shape the logic of thought, as well as the approach to problem-solving, learning, and innovation.

An example is neuroarchitecture, which studies how the built environment influences cognitive and emotional responses. This field blends architecture, psychology, neuroscience, and urbanism to enhance well-being and quality of life.

A key benefit of multidisciplinary collaboration is harnessing cognitive diversity to drive innovation, improve decision-making, and foster continuous learning. However, this approach comes with challenges, such as communication issues and integrating different methodologies, which require effective management for successful outcomes.

In summary, the ability to collaborate across different disciplines has become a key differentiator for organizational success, demonstrating that the outcomes achieved exceed the sum of their parts.

What is multidisciplinary collaboration?

This methodology involves the cooperation of individuals from various disciplines to tackle complex problems requiring multiple perspectives. Such teams bring together specialized techniques, tools, and approaches, creating solutions beyond the capacity of any single field.

This collaboration has unique characteristics that set it apart from other forms of teamwork. What attributes must these groups have to be truly effective?

Diverse perspectives: Professionals from different fields contribute unique insights, leading to more creative and effective solutions.

Effective communication: Each discipline has its own methodology and technical language, so clear communication is essential to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that all team members are aligned on goals and methods.

Respect for others’ expertise: Each team member must value the knowledge of others. This mutual respect fosters an environment of trust and openness, which facilitates collaboration and the exchange of ideas.

Flexibility and adaptability: Teams must be flexible, as projects may require adjustments in approach as understanding of the problem progresses. Adaptability is key to success.

Common goal alignment: Despite varied backgrounds, all members should align with a shared objective to maintain cohesion.

Benefits and challenges of multidisciplinary teams

When these characteristics are present, multidisciplinary teams effectively leverage diversity, creating an environment ripe for innovation and strategic decision-making. These factors not only optimize individual and collective performance, but also enhance organizational results. The concrete benefits of multidisciplinary teams include:

Increased innovation and creativity: Combining knowledge and practices from different areas generates ideas that would otherwise remain isolated. This synergy is essential in fields where innovation is a driver of growth.

Improved decision-making: Diversity of skills and perspectives improves business understanding and facilitates more informed and strategic decisions, resulting in more effective actions.

Continuous learning: Interaction with colleagues from other disciplines offers valuable opportunities to expand knowledge and develop new skills.

Strengthened bonds: Working toward a common goal reinforces team cohesion and helps build relationships of trust and mutual respect, essential conditions for effective collaboration.

Enhanced organizational resilience: Multidisciplinary teams can better cope with unexpected events as they can draw on a wide range of knowledge and skills to find effective solutions.

Despite these benefits, managing these teams presents unique challenges due to the diversity of profiles. Difficulties often include communication issues, conflict management, task coordination (especially in distributed teams), cultural differences, and the integration of methodologies. These areas, along with effective leadership, are critical to overcoming obstacles and maximizing the advantages of this approach.

Creating an Environment for Collaboration

The environment where multidisciplinary collaboration takes place is key to success. Both physical and virtual spaces should be designed to promote communication and idea exchange. An organizational culture that values openness, experimentation, and inclusiveness is also essential.

Physical space: A well-designed workplace environment can foster creativity, interaction and the flow of ideas, while a poorly planned one can hinder communication and productivity.

The design should consider the creation of open, flexible and reconfigurable spaces to adapt to different activities, along with informal areas where team members can meet to discuss ideas in a more relaxed manner. Breakout rooms and work coffee shops can be key points for spontaneous idea generation and creative problem solving, not to mention spaces for concentration to carry out individual work.

It is also essential that the team has the necessary tools to facilitate collaboration such as whiteboards, presentation screens and modular furniture that can be adjusted according to needs.

Virtual space: Technology is an indispensable ally in hybrid or distributed workplace environments. For example, online platforms allow file sharing and project management from anywhere, while virtual workspaces facilitate real-time co-creation.

Emerging technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are emerging as powerful tools for multidisciplinary collaboration, allowing teams to interact in a shared virtual environment, explore 3D prototypes, or simulate complex scenarios. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize the way teams collaborate, especially in industries such as architecture, engineering, and design.

Organizational culture: A culture of trust is crucial for effective collaboration. Developing soft skills, structured processes, and ongoing evaluation fosters a supportive environment where all team members feel comfortable sharing ideas and perspectives.

References:

CEPEDA, J.A.R., et al. (2023): “Knowledge integration in multidisciplinary teams as an enabler of innovation in technology-based industries”.

CUEVAS, H.M. et al. (2012): “Benefits and Challenges of Multidisciplinary Project Teams: Lessons Learned for Researchers and Practitioners”.

By dvivoli on Feb 25th, 2025

Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Design

Tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI) are having a significant impact on many activities in today’s world, including architecture. Many of these solutions are already transforming design processes thanks to their great computing power, which improves efficiency and expands creative horizons.

While AI-driven systems can generate multiple design options based on given parameters and criteria to help professionals explore a much broader range of possibilities, machine learning models make it possible to analyze large data sets from previous designs. In this way, it is possible to identify patterns, trends and preferences, which leads to generating proposals that are better informed and more relevant. On the other hand, AI can also help solve design problems that would otherwise require much more time, energy and resources, or that would be impossible to address in the traditional way.

However, the use of information technology is not new in architecture; it arrived along with the systems that automate representation processes. These drawing software make the process more efficient, but they do not lead to fundamental changes in the design method. For example CAD (Computer Aided Design) systems are digital tools and technologies that have been used for decades to graphically represent a design through drawings and models.

The evolution of these instruments gave rise to BIM (Building Informational Modeling), a work methodology that seeks efficiency by automating the design process. The system uses a digital model of the project which makes it possible to predict the behavior of the building and generate geometric, structural, lighting and bioclimatic studies with a single tridimensional model. The flow of information is no longer linear; rather, it is centralized so that all stakeholders have access to every detail of the project. This also leads to more effective communication than in the traditional system.

Going one step further, the exponential growth of technology and the proliferation of a wide variety of sensors that make it possible to obtain very precise information about the conditions of physical space have enabled the use of digital twins to create a virtual and dynamic representation of an existing structure. This is done with a software model using AI and machine learning based on the data it receives in real time. It allows different scenarios to be reproduced in order to evaluate the impact of changes in the design and use of space, the optimization of energy systems, air conditioning, etc.

Today, the possibilities offered by AI and machine learning are expanding the boundaries of tools in the service of creativity. We are witnessing the emergence of a new scenario for architecture, a practice that, for centuries, has relied on the experience and intuition of professionals to find new design solutions. Technology is changing this process completely.

Computational Design

Computational design is a method that uses the computing power of computers to achieve a given project, following instructions and design rules previously defined by the user.

Thanks to advances in AI and machine learning, designers can use large data sets as a starting point to find efficient solutions. They can also add considerations of behavior in specific conditions and analyses of the life cycle, the economic performance and the environmental impact of the project, among others.

However, while computational design offers great possibilities and is playing an increasingly relevant role in today’s architectural design, it can require specialized knowledge, forcing designers to acquire skills in other areas.

Computational design may be classified into several categories, as defined below:

→ Parametric design. These are models created using parameters, variables and restrictions that, through an algorithm, define the relationship between the design requirements and the resulting solutions. Changing a parameter automatically affects other elements of the design. For example, a parametric design might include a set of parameters that define the height, width and slope of a structure; adjusting any of these values automatically changes the shape of the building.

Parametric design makes it possible to create geometries that were previously more difficult to define, providing the possibility of developing more formally complex projects. This process became very popular thanks to avant‑garde architects such as Frank Gehry and Zaha Hadid.

→ Generative design. Generative models use algorithms and rules to create design options more or less autonomously, in order to provide solutions that meet the formal and performance requirements posed by the user. Generative design-based methods can create complex designs, even starting with simple algorithmic descriptions.

This methodology facilitates decision-making, as it allows a large number of options to be assessed and analyzed in a short time. And although aesthetic and geometric considerations are usually present, these are not its main purpose: the form arises out of the objectives pursued.

→ Algorithmic design. It is a paradigm that uses mathematical and logical algorithms to create and optimize specific design forms, structures and details. It can be more deterministic, more rigid and less adaptable to changes than generative design, since the results are directly linked to the application of certain defined algorithms. For example, such a model could be used to create a façade with specific patterns based on geometric criteria and contextual data.

It should be noted that these models are not mutually exclusive and they are often used in a complementary manner. Parametric and generative designs are often implemented through algorithmic techniques and, together, enable a more profound and efficient exploration of the design, providing flexibility, variability, and optimization.

Advantages and Disadvantages

New design tools powered by AI and machine learning are transforming creative processes and improving the efficiency of built space. These advances have a positive impact on many aspects. Here are some of the possibilities:

→ Generating innovative ideas. AI can generate a wide range of design options, exploring innovative ideas that may not have been considered by designers.

→ Efficiency in the design process. AI algorithms can generate proposals quickly, accelerating the creative process and enabling greater iteration in less time. Automation saves time, money and resources.

→ Generating complex geometries. These design tools make it possible to go beyond the boundaries of simple geometries. Intelligent algorithms make it possible to develop, calculate, optimize and represent complex structures and surfaces that would be impossible using traditional instruments alone. They also facilitate detailed and accurate analysis of the behavior of performance factors such as structural strength.

→ Simulation and analysis. AI can perform analyses and simulations of the behavior of environmental variables and energy performance, as well as carry out the structural assessment of a project. It can also use real-time data on weather conditions, space usage and other factors to dynamically inform and adjust the design over time.

→ Customization and adaptability. These tools can customize the layout based on individual preferences, such as ergonomics, work style, and other specific needs. This helps create spaces that are better adapted to the needs of users. AI can also contribute to the design of adaptable buildings that are able to evolve over time to satisfy the changing needs of their users. This reduces obsolescence and promotes durability, both key aspects of long-term sustainability.

→ Sustainable solutions. Design algorithms can incorporate sustainability data, which contributes to create more efficient and sustainable buildings that minimize environmental impact throughout their life cycle.

AI makes it possible to perform detailed energy efficiency analyses, optimize waste management by identifying strategies for material reuse and waste reduction, and optimize the consumption of vital resources, such as water.

→ Challenges. AI-assisted design offers great advantages in terms of efficiency, optimization, and creative exploration. However, it also poses challenges in connection with human creativity, the interpretation of cultural and social contexts, a dependence on precise data, ethical issues, and initial costs. The most effective approach might be a balanced combination of the capacities of AI with human experience and sensitivity.

The Implementation of AI in Design Processes at Contract Workplaces

by Leandro Boggiatto*, Architecture and Design Manager for Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Mexico at Contract Workplaces.

Over the years, the company has maintained its focus on the constant search for innovation, while committing to explore and foster new ideas that allow us to expand our boundaries and contribute to business growth. In this context, we have incorporated the use of several AI-driven apps and programs into the design processes to streamline and optimize our proposals.

On the one hand, the use of AI to improve the performance of test fits—the process by which the possibilities of a property are assessed to satisfy the programmatic needs of the future office—has become a first-rate tool. This fit test, which used to take days or weeks with the traditional methods, can now be completed in a matter of minutes and with high-quality, tangible results.

Likewise, we have incorporated AI driven apps to create high-definition renders, resulting in some early visual representations that can be used as a starting point to communicate our ideas to the client. Without a doubt, this is a great advantage, as we were able to considerably reduce the time spent on the preliminary stages of the design process, streamlining decision-making regarding shape, layout, materials, colors, textures and lighting, as well as the project’s general perception.

On the other hand, we are also beginning to use immersive reality so that customers can explore a digital representation of the design proposal at full scale. Our current goal is to be able to make changes while on this virtual tour (e.g., in materials, colors, etc.), for customers to have the possibility of appreciating different options more realistically. This tool would also make it possible to detect and solve potential construction problems.

Based on the advances we have made by integrating AI into our design processes, we can conclude that this technology has proven to be an invaluable resource in improving the efficiency and quality of our work and, above all, in meeting the expectations of our customers at all stages of the project.

References:

CAETANO, I. et al. (2020): “Computational design in architecture: Defining parametric, generative, and algorithmic design”.

GARCÍA TORIJA, A. I. (2021): “Diseño generativo. Algoritmos como método de diseño”.

ROYAL INSTITUTE OF BRITISH ARCHITECTS (2024): “RIBA AI Report 2024”.

RUSU, A. M. (2015): “Geometry and complexity in architecture”.

KAICKER, A. et al. (2019): “Enhancing Workplace Design through Advanced Floor Plate Analytics”.

By dvivoli on Feb 24th, 2025

The Evolution of Smart Offices

With the development of ubiquitous connectivity and the multiplication of new low-cost technologies, a few decades ago we witnessed a proliferation of sensors, actuators and other devices capable of connecting with each other and exchanging information through the Internet. This network, known as the Internet of Things (IoT), has become the nervous system of smart buildings and workspaces. Within this ecosystem, a series of instruments control various space conditions through autonomous adjustments to optimize resources, operating costs and work experience.

In recent years, advances in new materials’ research along with the growth of artificial intelligence (AI) have laid the foundation to go one step beyond automation. This facilitated the development of work spaces that were sensitive and adaptive to outside conditions and the presence of people: “responsive” environments.

This concept comes from the realm of web design and ensures that the appearance of content is consistent across different devices while maintaining visual identity and readability. Thus, responsive websites dynamically adjust to adapt to the size and orientation of any equipment, providing an optimal user experience.

Both in web design and in offices, the key is the ability to adapt, that is, the capacity of a system to learn and modify a process, a state or a feature according to the changes undergone by the context.

In the same way, the integration of space with cutting-edge technologies such as intelligent systems, machine learning algorithms and data analysis, among others, will allow buildings to be transformed from static entities into dynamic environments that change actively and in real time. It’s about creating workplaces that learn, adapt and evolve according to the needs of the moment.

Intelligence and Adaptability

The smart office focuses on automation and data-driven decision making to optimize various aspects, such as lighting, HVAC and resource management. In turn, the responsive office transcends this concept by incorporating the ability to actively adapt to changing situations in real time, without human intervention. This dynamic approach is achieved by integrating advanced technologies such as smart systems, machine learning algorithms and data analysis. However, in practice, these two models can overlap; many office solutions can be both smart and responsive.

Responsive spaces are dynamic and can adapt to a large number of variables ranging from user behavior to both internal and external environmental conditions. And, although the concept is not entirely new, the arrival of AI in the marketplace has injected a level of complexity and effectiveness that was previously unattainable.

Offices today are prepared for this transformation. With the digital infrastructure, automation and machine learning comes the ability to predictively respond to demands and optimize outcomes for a large variety of situations and needs. This will allow offices to become places driven by the information they constantly collect and by real-time feedback, almost like a living organism.

Thus, the kinetic façade of a building can be opened and closed depending on solar radiation, saving energy and offering greater comfort to its occupants. And the air conditioning system will adjust to predictive demand based on space occupation and meteorological data captured in real time.

The goal of this new approach is not only to keep offices relevant in response to the changing needs of the market and an ever-evolving workforce, but also at every moment, from the morning commute to lunch.

What Does a Responsive Office Look Like?

In a responsive office, contextual information is essential. In the same way that living organisms have a number of sensory organs and other receptors that let them know external and internal environmental conditions to adapt effectively, the systems of a responsive building must collect and store data about environmental conditions, energy use, occupancy, weather, etc., and based on this, decide what actions are necessary.

AI systems can also collect observations about people. For example, carbon dioxide levels in the breath, thermal imaging, walking and movement patterns, heartbeat, pupil size and other indicators can reveal a person’s emotional and mental state. The possibility of accessing this information through special devices (eye trackers, microphones, cameras, wearables, etc.) may be useful to adapt the environment more precisely.

In a responsive office, several advanced technologies are integrated for an active and personalized adaptation of the work environment. These technologies might include:

→ Presence and activity sensors: they monitor occupancy and the movement of people in real time. They may include cameras, motion sensors and location technologies.

→ Dynamic space management: a smart management system that uses sensor data to identify the occupancy of different areas in the office. With this information, the layout of desks and co-working areas is dynamically adjusted to optimize the use of space and ensure employee comfort.

→ Customized lighting: it includes biometric sensors, such as those that monitor pupillary response, to assess employees’ eye strain and lighting needs. Smart lighting systems automatically adjust light intensity, color and direction based on individual requirements.

→ Adaptive HVAC: the system leverages AI algorithms and machine learning capabilities to analyze internal conditions in different areas of the office based on orientation and occupancy, along with weather information and historical data. This way, it can make proactive adjustments and optimize HVAC efficiency. It may even anticipate the need of occupants based on their daily routine or preferences, guaranteeing comfort without wasting energy.

→ Smart ergonomic devices: smart desks and chairs equipped with sensors that monitor employees’ posture and physical activity can automatically adjust the height of desks, tilt of chairs, and ergonomic settings to prevent posture-related health problems.

→ Customized collaboration systems: meeting room collaboration technology adapts to the specific needs of each team. It uses advanced video conferencing systems and cloud collaboration tools integrated with employees’ calendars and communication preferences.

→ Environment-sensitive interfaces: these are different physical elements that can adapt to the context in real time. For example, solar panels that can be adjusted according to the position of the sun, kinetic façades and glass panels that change opacity to control light, or furniture that reconfigures automatically.

Altogether, the responsive office uses real-time data and involves the integration of multiple solutions and advanced technologies to create a dynamic and personalized work environment. Adaptability extends from the physical layout of the space to aspects such as lighting and air conditioning with the aim of improving the comfort, productivity and well-being of employees.

Bonus Track: Environmental Sustainability

AI-driven responsive spaces can play an essential role in caring for the environment. Through their smart energy management systems, unnecessary consumption can be reduced and the use of resources can be optimized.

Thanks to their ability to dynamically adapt the settings of environmental control devices to the contextual conditions, they can, for example, adjust the shading and reflectivity mechanisms of the façade according to the orientation, time of day or particular climatic conditions. This, along with the control of HVAC and lighting systems, not only improves user comfort, but also optimizes energy efficiency.

Smart space management also helps minimize environmental impact, since an office that occupies less space is more efficient and saves resources. Shared areas and desks require less square feet per person and can be managed with booking software and occupancy sensors.

References:

WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM (2020): “Shaping the Future of the Internet of Bodies: New challenges of technology governance”.

HAWORTH (2016): “Enabling the Organic Workspace: Emerging Technologies that Focus on People, Not Just Space”.

MAKSOUD, A. et al. (2022): “Self-learning Buildings: integrating Artificial Intelligence to create a building that can adapt to future challenges”.

CARLUCCI, F. (2021): “A Review of Smart and Responsive Building Technologies and their Classifications”.

RIMMER, J. (2023): “How AI Is Changing the Workplace”.

By dvivoli on Dec 27th, 2024

The New Challenges of Well-Being

The search for healthy conditions in the workplace is an increasingly widespread trend, especially after the pandemic. Companies have understood that the well-being of the workforce not only affects profitability; it also improves employee engagement, performance, and retention.

New technological advances, which have relieved the physical and mental burden on a wide range of tasks, are radically transforming the way we work and our workspaces. Because of this, it is increasingly important to take into account the risks resulting from stress and physical inactivity, increasingly frequent phenomena in the office.

To all this, today we add the great changes derived from the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) in many fields of work. These new technologies, which have the capacity to affect employment opportunities by transforming the role that people play in the world of work, will surely have an impact on the health, safety and general well-being of workers, even if we do not yet fully understand their effects.

It is well known that AI can automate tasks in a variety of different jobs. It may also help employees complete physically or mentally heavy and repetitive tasks, freeing up their time for high value-added activities and contributing to improved job performance and increased productivity. Furthermore, it could lead to a new conception of work environments due to the redistribution and reorganization of tasks between workers and machines. AI adoption may also require people to work alongside smart systems creating new dynamics and greater collaboration between technology and people.

Given the scope that the adoption of AI in the workplace can have, it is reasonable to assume it has a high potential to alter people’s well-being conditions. The new challenges posed by the decline in job opportunities, the need to acquire specialized skills to avoid becoming obsolete, and exposure to yet unknown physical and psychosocial risks will force companies to take a new approach regarding the health, safety and well-being of workers.

Risks Associated with These Technologies

Today it is relatively easy to automate a large number of tasks that are difficult for human capacity: memorizing information, accurately evaluating risk factors, performing repetitive tasks without errors, handling statistical data, finding patterns, etc. However, as AI becomes increasingly integrated into work life, companies must understand not only its benefits, but also the contingencies related to workforce well-being:

→ Job displacement and automation. The introduction of AI at work can generate insecurity, anxiety and stress among employees, especially if they perceive that the technology can displace them from certain tasks, make them lose autonomy or require them to acquire extra skills to work effectively with new tools or work processes.

Disrupting the traditional balance of control between people and technology, with humans in control, can create a more stressful and dehumanizing environment that will negatively impact the health and well-being of workers.

→Technology fatigue and stress. The constant use of technologies with digital interfaces can contribute to technological fatigue, which manifests as visual, mental and emotional fatigue along with mental and cognitive exhaustion. This prolonged exposure to technological stimuli can hinder the ability to structure and assimilate the amount of information received.

→ Impact on human interaction. Overreliance on AI-driven technology, such as chatbots or virtual assistants, may affect the quality of human interaction within the work environment, with consequences for collaboration and organizational culture.

→ Mental health risks. Some people can develop illusions of social relationship with advanced AI-powered chatbots, especially those designed to convincingly simulate human conversation. This may lead to emotional attachments or unrealistic expectations, which could affect emotional well-being. If this interaction replaces real human connections, it could contribute to social isolation and have negative effects on mental health.

→ Ethical and privacy concerns. Using AI algorithms to make decisions in the workplace can raise ethical and privacy concerns, especially if transparency and data protection issues are not adequately addressed. To mitigate these risks, it is essential that organizations and technology developers are transparent about the nature of AI systems.

AI Solutions to Improve Well-Being

Technological advances have two sides. On the one hand, as we have seen, AI-powered technologies have their risks—especially if they are poorly designed or implemented—but, on the other, they are clearly part of the solution.

One of the advantages of AI and machine learning-based technologies to improve employee well-being is their ability to analyze large amounts of data and provide personalized recommendations. Using algorithms and predictive models, AI can take into account information about each employee’s health, preferences and behaviors. This way, it is possible to create customized well-being programs. These can range from exercise and healthy eating routines to powerful tools and valuable resources to help manage stress, anxiety and a positive work-life balance. But above all, they have the potential to allow workers to feel more engaged, satisfied and happy in their workplace. Some of the possibilities include:

→ Monitoring biometric data in real time. Some AI-powered apps can track workers’ stress levels by analyzing data from wearables. Smart watches or activity bracelets that use machine learning algorithms to monitor things like physical activity or sleep quality provide a variety of health-related parameters. With this information, these apps can provide customized recommendations on stress-reduction techniques and even predict the risk of burnout.

The company Kintsugi, for example, offers technology that harnesses the power of AI and vocal biomarkers to identify signs of depression and anxiety in users’ speech, while also providing advice on the type of support needed.

→ Mental health chatbots. AI-based chatbots can provide support 24-hours a day for people experiencing mental health issues, burnout or stress. These tools interact confidentially with employees to discuss their concerns and provide advice and information on mental health resources available within the organization; they can also suggest self-help strategies. The immediate assistance and availability offered by these chatbots helps mitigate the stigma associated with mental health issues and promote early professional intervention if necessary.

→ Virtual assistants for well-being. Certain AI-powered virtual assistants are designed to provide support in connection with people’s well-being by offering information on healthy habits, reminders to take breaks, and suggestions to improve quality of life at work. They also help optimize the work load and schedule management by offering recommendations on task prioritization and time management. This way, employees use their workday more efficiently and achieve a healthier work-life balance.

→ Physical activity monitoring. Physical activity plays a very important role in promoting and maintaining physical and mental well-being. There is evidence to suggest that exercising is associated with increased productivity and skill in creative tasks. In order to stay in shape, there are wearable devices, applications and platforms that integrate data on physical activity, heart rate, O₂saturation and more to provide personalized reports and recommendations throughout the day.

In conclusion, it is important to keep in mind that the use of these types of tools poses ethical and privacy issues. It is essential to ensure that data security standards are met and that clear options are provided for employees to voluntarily participate in these programs.

References:

BULPIN, J. (2020): “How AI could benefit mental health and well-being in the workplace”.

DALMIA, N. (2023): “As AI reshapes workplaces, prioritizing health & well-being of employees takes center stage”.

JETHA, A. et al. (2023): “Artificial intelligence and the work–health interface: A research agenda for a technologically transforming world of work”.

ROBINSON, B. (2023): “Workers Using AI Technology Taking Mental Health Into Their Own Hands”.

By dvivoli on Dec 27th, 2024

Technology for Talent Acquisition

Nowadays, companies face a more competitive and complex environment than ever before. To respond successfully to the challenges of the market, their most valuable resource is their human capital, understood as their collaborators’ cumulative knowledge, skills, experience, competences and talent.

Because the truth is that the value of an organization is based not only on its physical assets, but also—and especially—on the capabilities and potential of its personnel. It is the employees who, through their training, development, commitment and initiative, drive a company’s long-term growth and success.

The idea that a company’s biggest asset is its people is fairly recent, and constitutes a radical departure from the concepts of value and competitive advantage that were the norm only a few decades ago. From the beginning of the 20th century and up to the early 1980s, between 70% and 90% of a company’s value was associated with tangible assets like real estate and equipment. In the year 2000 there was a change: the value of intangible assets climbed to 65% and employees, formerly seen as mere cogs, became the drivers of corporate success.

In fact, the term “human resources”—which for a long time was used to refer to a company’s collaborators and, by extension, to the department in charge of managing personnel—has fallen into disuse, as it was deemed to objectify people, reducing them to mere material assets harnessed to achieve the company’s goals. As an alternative, terms like “talent management” and “human capital” have been proposed to underscore the importance of acknowledging and valuing employees as individuals, with unique skills, talents and contributions.

In this new scenario, it’s understandable that having the best collaborators is a key concern for any organization. As a result, the hiring process, once an important activity, has become a strategic consideration within companies.

Technology and Human Capital

Until the mid to late 1990s, the hiring process required candidates to appear in person at the offices of the company that offered the position. In the early 2000s, there was a major breakthrough with the arrival of digital platforms and social networks aimed at corporate use, business and employment. These tools made it possible to post full job descriptions and share them with thousands of potential employees on the Internet. One of the oldest and most successful is LinkedIn.

Between 2010 and 2015, artificial intelligence (AI) reached the talent management sector. These new instruments can carry out tasks and make decisions that normally require human intelligence. Some of its potential advantages include the capacity to identify, attract, select, evaluate and interview potential candidates, together with the ability to coordinate interviews more effectively.

Why is AI so important? Because this is fundamentally a big-data problem. AI has the ability to process large volumes of information and make decisions far more quickly than humans can. Moreover, with the correct programming and data entry, many of these recruitment tools and systems can avoid the most common cognitive biases that affect the reliability and validity of human judgment in the hiring process.

How to Choose the Best Talent

Personnel selection is a field where AI-based tools can be very useful: they simplify the search for candidates, assess and manage applications and identify profiles that meet the selection criteria for a given post. They are mainly designed for companies that must process large numbers of applications.

Broadly speaking, the recruitment process consists of four stages, although the boundaries between them are not rigid. AI-powered systems can help at every stage:

→ Search. Modern organizations must fill available positions on a regular basis. Using AI can enhance their ability to find the right talent at the right time. How does it achieve this? The system advertises job opportunities through various channels (posts on social media, emails, text messages, etcetera) to achieve optimal reach and response according to the desired profile. In time, it learns to fine-tune not just the means of publication, but also the exact job description and writing style. In this way, the system adjusts the target audience for the job offer and helps to increase the number of applicants.

→ Interviews. One big advantage of AI at the interview stage is the use of digital assistants. These chatbots facilitate and improve the experience of the interview process by answering candidates’ questions or supplying information whenever it is requested.

→ Selection and offer. AI applications can help recruiters to make better hiring decisions by enabling them to compare applicants with the top-performing employees, create customized job offers and anticipate candidates’ behavior to predict how likely they are to accept the offer and remain in the role.

→ Onboarding. The onboarding process is fundamental to achieve permanence. According to one study, 40% of new employees resigns within the first year after being hired, but 75% of these contingencies could have been avoided if their onboarding had been handled more effectively. AI helps to minimize these risks by automating the delivery and receipt of the necessary documentation and tracking what information was actually read, with no need for human intervention. In addition, chatbots can recommend learning resources for new joiners, such as books and news articles or other content relevant to their position.

Highlights and Challenges of AI-Driven Technology

As we have seen, the use of AI-driven technologies in recruitment results in a competitive advantage, enabling a more efficient candidate search, informed decision-making and more seamless communication with applicants. However, as exciting as these new technologies might be, we should keep in mind that these are technological projects, and that their complexities must be understood in order to harness their full potential. Also, like any new technology, especially in its early days, AI can have both positive and negative outcomes. Here are some of its main features:

→ It increases processing speed. The biggest advantage of AI is its capacity to analyze and classify information much faster than human beings, which reduces the time spent manually assessing CVs.

→ It helps to eliminate biases and prejudice. As it is impossible to eliminate unconscious biases in human beings, AI-based tools for personnel selection can help us to overcome prejudice instead of perpetuating it.

One great advantage of algorithms is that they can be designed to be auditable. In this way, the source of the biases present in the data set used to train the system can be timely identified and corrected. To this end, those who work with this technology must input the correct data and train the systems with an awareness of diversity and equity.

Because while AI programs learn by finding patterns in data, they need human guidance to guarantee that the software does not draw erroneous conclusions. This could eventually lead to a more diverse and inclusive workplace.

→ It improves corporate image. By using AI systems in recruitment, companies can help candidates to perceive their brand as cutting edge. This results in more positive perceptions and also a higher likelihood that candidates will finish the application process.

→ High costs. Unless a company hires a large number of employees each year, which would make up for the cost of developing and implementing AI-based recruitment tools, hiring third-party recruiters is still more convenient.

→ It may endanger privacy. As AI systems gradually collect and process large amounts of applicants’ data, the risk of potential privacy violations or misuse increases. To avoid these contingencies, organizations must clearly disclose how they will use data during the hiring process and obtain candidates’ explicit consent. And, of course, data itself must be protected by means of security measures such as encryption, to avoid unauthorized access.

By Caio Ferretti on Nov 28th, 2024

Redefining the Future of Work: Innovation and Humanization in the Workplace

The Worktech LATAM 2024 events -organized by the design and construction firm Contract Workplaces– made their way through Chile, Peru, Uruguay, and Argentina, bringing together thought leaders and innovation experts to explore the future of work and the transformation of workplace environments. This year, the conferences focused on the need to humanize workspaces and leverage technology to create meaningful experiences for collaborators.

The current work crisis was a recurring theme, addressed by Carolina Bellora -Director of Bizart Group and consultant in Change Management and Cultural Transformation- and Carmen Gloria Cárcamo Losada -Co-Founder & Professor at Unlearni and Director of Innovation Projects at Socialab- shared insights on the importance of connecting with employees through meaningful purpose.

Bellora emphasized the cultural transformation needed within organizations, while Cárcamo Losada presented artificial intelligence as a tool to enhance human capabilities, suggesting that technology should be viewed as an ally rather than a threat. Both experts underscored that “if you work like a robot, a robot will take your job,” emphasizing passion as a key differentiator.

Echoing this message, Annarita Nieri -Chief Strategy & Transformation Officer at Niubiz- highlighted the importance of nurturing organizational culture and creating an environment where employees feel valued and connected to their purpose. “If we can create a space where talent is valued, and each person’s story becomes part of the collective success, then we’re building an organization prepared for any future challenge,” she concluded.

The role of art in organizational culture was also discussed by Florencia Pochinki, a strategic consultant in the cultural sector, who explored how artistic interventions -like those in the offices of Supermayorista Vital- can reflect and strengthen a brand’s values and influence in how work environments are experienced. Meanwhile, Adam Scott -Founder and Global Creative Director of FreeState-, argued that experience design is fundamental for fostering deep connections, which is essential in a world facing constant social change. Scott emphasized the need for an “experience master plan” that takes into account each employee’s journey, showcasing the Serena Williams Building at Nike’s global headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon, as an example of a workspace designed to foster connection, collaboration, and innovation.

Another key topic was the evolution of workspaces into collaborative communities. Leon Rost -Partner at Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG)-, and Joe Brady -a consultant on the future of commercial real estate- discussed how the design of these environments should cater to human needs, promoting health and well-being. Rost demonstrated how technological advancements and social expectations have redefined workplace design. According to the architect, it is important to incorporate all aspects of life into the workspace: interaction with other people, connection with nature, hospitality, flexibility and sustainability. Brady analyzed the impact of shifting consumer behavior on the commercial real estate market, stressing the need to view physical spaces as places for community interaction. He stated, “Old ways of thinking and operating are no longer sufficient to understand or solve contemporary issues. This is especially relevant in industries transformed by technology, where traditional methods are being outpaced by new digital platforms.”

The commitment to sustainable business practices was emphasized by Gustavo Pujol, CEO and Founder of Interop Latin America, who posed critical questions about the true commitment behind ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) efforts. He analyzed the balance between marketing and genuine action in sustainability, emphasizing that a strong organizational culture is essential for long-term success.

The technological revolution and the impact of artificial intelligence were addressed from various perspectives. Leeor Solnik -Co-Founder and CEO of qbiq- provided examples of how AI is transforming architectural planning. Meanwhile, Daniel Hulme – CEO of Satalia and director of AI at WPP – emphasized how organizations can adopt these technologies responsibly. Both, in turn, stressed the need for a strategic approach to maximize the potential of technology and avoid its hype. He postulated “that means that organizational structures must be reinvented. We know that we have processes such as expenses, incorporation and dismissal of personnel that tend to be quite bureaucratic, and these are a brake on the ability to innovate”.

Finally, the business disruptor, Gabriel Gurovich, argued that the true impact of AI on work will be evident only when the AI native generation starts working. “Those born in the last 24 months, who are still young, will become AI natives. Just like what happened with internet natives, those born into a world of easy, non-keyboard-based technology interaction. It will be the same for AI natives.”

With over 1,000 attendees, Worktech LATAM once again established itself not only as a platform for reflecting on current challenges but also as a call to action for organizations to humanize workspaces, incorporate experience design, consider team well-being, promote sustainability, and adopt technology responsibly. In this context, the future of work emerges as an opportunity to build more inclusive, connected, and resilient organizational cultures.

By Caio Ferretti on Sep 28th, 2021

Connect users to the home and job of their dreams – Navent Argentina

Navent is a leading company in Latin America founded in Argentina specialized in online classifieds for more than 20 years. The company –which has been growing exponentially since its inception and is now present in 8 countries in the region– is focused on helping people in the search for employment and real estate.

Navent’s new offices in the city of Buenos Aires are located on the 25th floor of a modern tower in the Nuñez neighborhood – a district with a great commercial development – which has panoramic views of the Río de la Plata and the rest of the city.

In order to give the brand a new and unique identity, the new offices of the company had to meet the objective of bringing together its two main locations in the same workspace, each with different cultures and work dynamics.

The challenge of uniting both worlds began with a consultancy job of Workplace Strategy to understand the present activity in both places, unify requirements and establish common criteria.

The conceptual design that was proposed from Contract Workplaces consisted of representing the company’s mission and vision: connecting users with the home and job of their dreams. Thus, “connecting” became both the primary and essential objective of the daily work experience and the starting point for endowing the company with a unique identity.

The project was developed on a 2,500 sqm floor plan from four points of interest, or milestones, that connect the different work groups that are located in the interstitial space. These “connectors” not only allow employees to meet to encourage interaction; they also encourage the agile method of work.

For the operational area, an open-plan design was chosen with the workstations distributed near the perimeter to take advantage of natural light and views to the outside. The oblique arrangement of the desks gives an element of surprise to the layout while transmitting dynamism to the space.

Both the private offices and the formal meeting rooms were located at one end of the floor while the Phone Booths, Meetings and the meeting rooms for few people were arranged in relation to the connectors for public use. In this way, collaborators can go from a spontaneous chat in the stands, for example, to a more private environment in the wide variety of Meetings offered by the project.

The cafeteria, located near the reception, has an extensive bar that articulates the table area with an area that has lounge chairs, suitable both for relaxing and for working in a more relaxed environment.

Regarding the materiality of the project, a wide color palette was used seeking to represent and give identity to each of the brands that make up the Navent company. For this, we worked with different tonal ranges, textures and patterns that, in addition, gave the space a playful and scenographic character.

Graphics and branding had a privileged place in the development of these offices, becoming a leading element in many of their spaces.

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Area: 2500 sqm

Work period: 100 days

Project: Turnkey

Year: 2021

Industry: Technological

Project Manager: Romina Chalcovich

Designer: Javier Pihn

By Caio Ferretti on Sep 24th, 2021

A space to strengthen relationships – AHK Colombia

The project for the new offices for the AHK Colombo-German Chamber –located in a well-known area of the city of Bogotá– focused on enhancing the space of the current headquarters, as a result of different modifications that underused and compartmentalized the space, resulting in a hierarchical environment with few collaborative areas.

The main objective was to create a space more open to urban visuals and with a greater number of areas for collaboration both for the internal client and for the affiliated companies, which will give them the possibility of accessing all the services and corporate infrastructure under a Coworking model.

The architectural project was divided into two phases to facilitate the logistical challenge of construction while the company maintained its commercial activity. In phase 1, the construction of the areas that would house the internal corporate infrastructure, that is, the private spaces of AHK, was carried out. In this area, the workstations of all the employees were organized in islands within an open office in which hierarchies were completely eliminated and additional complementary spaces were generated such as printing points, Meeting Rooms, Booths for 4 people, Individual phone booths and spaces for collaboration and innovation.

In phase 2 the most public project was developed: the areas dedicated to Coworking and the areas shared between employees and affiliates such as the cafeteria –designed under the concept of Work-Café– and the auditorium, designed as a flexible space for conferences or trainings. In this phase, meeting spaces for videoconferences and private offices for clients of affiliated companies were included.

The tour of the project begins in the most public area of the Coworking and ends in the private area of AHK. In this way, the spatial organization is structured while facilitating access control within an organization that is very dynamic and constantly interacts with external users.

On the other hand, thanks to the branding experience –which starts from an urban style, closely related to the Berlin subway– it was possible to capture an identity and a stronger character in the space. Both the typography and the colors and the textures used are directly linked to the architectural and stylistic atmosphere of the transport system of the German capital. And this concept also extends to all graphics; from the names of the spaces to the billboards applied, the entire intervention is an interpretation of the aesthetics and architecture of the Berlin metro network.

The result was a modern office space, which offers different possibilities for interaction and communication and which not only facilitates internal dynamics; it also favors fluid contact with customers and affiliates. In short, a positive catalyst when it comes to strengthening Colombo – German relations.

Area: 494 m2

Duration: 287 days

Country: Colombia

Project: Turnkey

Year: 2020

Activity: Foreign Representations

PM: Carolina Espitia, Andrés Álvarez.

Designer: Robert Nieto.

By Caio Ferretti on Sep 20th, 2021

When the heart of the brand makes the workspace beat – GSK Ecuador

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is among the top ten pharmaceutical companies in the world (and one of the largest in Ecuador), focused on improving people’s quality of life through research. And although its commercial operation is located in the city of Quito, it has a large workforce presence throughout the country.

The GSK offices, entirely made by Contract Workplaces, were developed on a 518 sqm floor located in ‘Torre 6’, one of the most emblematic and modern buildings in the city.

This prominent pharmaceutical company, which has a large multinational presence, has developed its own strategy for all its workspaces and has a design guide that specifies the use of colors, the dimensions of the furniture, the types of finishes, the design chart, ergonomics guidelines, etc., for all its locations.

One of the main challenges of Contract Workplaces was to develop a proposal for a conceptual design with its own character that would also meet the parameters and requirements established by the company. With this in mind, the heart of the GSK logo was taken as a starting point to turn each of the office spaces into the beat of that heart, a place where users could feel at home.

The office was distributed in three different areas: public, semi-public and private. The public area was made up of the reception, together with meeting rooms of different capacities. There we opted for a palette of neutral tones with some wooden accents in order to give the spaces a more formal character.

In the semi-public area, the “heart” of the office, the collaboration spaces and operational positions were located as part of the transition to more private areas. The choice of a range of bright colors together with the curved lines of the furniture created a cheerful and pleasant atmosphere that contrasted with the formality of the public area.

The workstations were located on the ventilated side of the plant in order to take advantage of the natural light. And, to break the linearity of the desks, a counterpoint was proposed with the suspended ceiling formed by heart-shaped clouds located in different directions.

In the private area, the Coffee area offers an atmosphere with a more homely and informal style. In this space, we worked with a palette of tones complemented with various shades of wood in the furniture and ceiling, and with color accents in the graphics.

The search for the best standards in ergonomics and comfort stands out throughout the project. This is true not only in the acoustics of the meeting rooms but also in the choice of furniture, and ranges from the chairs in the operating, waiting and meeting areas, to the desks, all of which are adjustable in height to suit them to the way of working of each user.

Regarding the design of the office graphics, and although it was already pre-established by GSK, the proposal to create a more local identity using names and icons from different places in Ecuador in the meeting rooms was gladly accepted.

The end result was a unique, functional and welcoming environment for users, which met the global growth standards of GSK, but with its own personality and charm.

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AREA: 518 sqm
WORK TIME: 90 days
TYPE OF WORK: Turnkey Project
TYPE OF INDUSTRY: Pharmaceutical
YEAR: 2020
PM: María José Castro
Designers: María José Morchz/Mario Molina

By Caio Ferretti on Aug 31st, 2021

Contract Workplaces Ecuador celebrates 6 years

Six years ago, in August 2015, Contract Workplaces landed in Ecuador. Since then, it has already designed and built more than 180,000 sqm for prominent local and international companies and organizations and has managed to position itself as a business of high standards, which beyond its trajectory, stands out for its constant ability to reinvent itself and adapt to the various challenges of the context.

Some of its clients are: Produbanco, BMI, Telefónica, Equivida, Chubb, GSK, Microsoft and UDLA, “not only because of the footage they represent, but because each of these companies are true benchmarks in the field and we have been able to be part of the implementation of methodologies that have marked a new dynamic in the world of work and education. Like us, each project has its story to tell; Each client represents a part of our journey with their unique challenges, with their particularities ”, says Cristina Torres General Manager of Contract Workplaces Ecuador.

The world of work is mutating

Work is more than a daily routine to which we dedicate 40 hours a week, it is the “space” where shared goals are created and it plays a very important role in the construction of one’s own identity and social relationships.

The physical space has the power to materialize the DNA of organizations and should not be understood only as a neutral box whose sole function is to contain desks. When well designed, space is a powerful management tool capable of bringing out the best in each one of us. “The world of work is clearly changing, we went from thinking of hierarchically designed offices that could only be thought of as large rows of desks, to understanding that we can work in every available square meter, in multiple formats and that those who accompany our day they nourish us with new experiences ”, reflects Cristina Torres, General Manager of Contract Workplaces Ecuador.

It is then where space takes on a fundamental meaning, it becomes the best place to learn, share and grow. “This is a path that must be strengthened and continued. It reflects the true meaning of each organization, its values are no longer transmitted only verbally: they are lived! ”, Adds Torres.

As a regional company, Contract Workplaces has a specialized team for each aspect to be covered within the framework of a remodeling, refunctionalization and / or opening of new offices. “Without a doubt, this is one of the differentials that our clients value: the comprehensive scope of our service, professionalism and the ability to fully understand the needs of each company,” says Torres. “Companies are looking for someone to trust – adds Torres – and we become part of their day to day, we get to know what the true DNA is behind each organization, we turn the space into the experience that each client is looking for and that reflects who they really are and want to be ”.

With the arrival of COVID, the workspace faces moments of unprecedented changes both in the occupancy rate, the location and the spatial configuration, as well as in the operational routines derived from the new sanitary measures of physical distancing. What, then, will be the characteristics of the post-pandemic work environment?

Companies will not leave their offices because the office is more than just a workspace; It is a meeting place with colleagues and an opportunity for direct personal contact, essential to generate solid relationships. But, in order for us to return with confidence, it is imperative to rethink the design of the workspace. Organizations need forward-thinking, flexible and adaptable management and leadership capable of transforming the way decisions are made, motivating staff and creating an organizational culture with people and their emotions at the center.

“This last year has been particularly the best opportunity to show our clients that we are capable of accompanying them on this path, proposing disruptive ideas that allow them to approach this reality with a new perspective,” explains the executive. In this scenario and after 6 years of journey, Contract Workplaces Ecuador has achieved a milestone and its great commitment is to continue being pioneers and true references in the market.