FAQ – Observation Studies
1. Before a study
1a. Why is a Workplace Observation Study conducted?
Workplace Observation Studies are conducted to better understand the actual use of the workspace. Workplace Observation Studies help Facilities and Real Estate professionals make decisions based on accurate information and insights.
1b. What does a Workplace Observation Study look like?
At the start of a Workplace Observation Study, we send a team of well-trained observers, led by a dedicated project manager, to do walkarounds and register the usage of each object in your work environment.
1c. How long do you need to measure in order to have reliable insights?
A minimum of two weeks of measuring has proven to be the right mix between the usability and reliability of the results. This time span also overcomes incidents that may lead to deviation in the results.
1d. For which objects can you provide the occupancy rate during a Workplace Observation Study?
During a Workplace Observation Study, it is possible to measure all objects related to your workspace. This includes any kind of workplace and meeting facilities.
1e. What does a Workplace Inventory for a Workplace Observation Study consist of?
Based on the supplied floor plans, the extent to which these are up to date and/or whether changes have taken place will be examined on location. A project manager will independently walk through the building and then process the workspaces, meeting rooms, etc. in our own developed software system. This system will be used by the observers who will execute the walkarounds.
1f. How long does a Workplace Observation Study last?
A complete Workplace Observation Study lasts 25 working days. A breakdown of these days is as follows:
- Ten days of preparation
- Ten days measurement
- Five days report
1g. What do I have to make available during the preparation of a Workplace Observation Study?
Download this document.
1h. Is there a backup plan for guaranteeing 100% data measurement during a Workplace Observation Study?
Every project has a backup plan. In case of unforeseeable circumstances, such as a power outage or IT failure which hinders employees or Observers to carry out their normal work, the measurements from that part of the day or the whole day are conducted later on a day that week. This is done to ensure reliable data. In case an Observer gets sick on the day or during the day of the measurement, a replacement is arranged as soon as possible. If a replacement is not possible, the measurement for the part of the day or the whole day is conducted on a later day in the week.
1i. How are the observers trained for a Workplace Observation Study?
All observers conducting a Workplace Observation Study go through an online training they need to pass, followed by a project briefing and a trial round which is supervised by the project manager.
1j. Can I approach an observer if I have a question regarding the Workplace Observation Study?
No. To experience the least possible hindrance during the execution of his/her work, it is recommended to not approach observers. If you have any questions regarding the study we suggest you to contact the project manager.
1k. Is a project manager present every day during a Workplace Observation Study?
No. The observers are trained in such a way that they can carry out the measurement independently. After running a test round with the observer and a start-up has taken place, the observer can perform the measurement independently. We will, however, keep you informed by telephone and by email about the progress of the study. The project manager checks the received data each hour to secure the quality of the data.
1l. What do you mean by a trial round or startup?
- A trial round is a test round where a project manager supervises our observers on location in the week prior to the Workplace Observation Study.
- A start-up is the very first morning of the Workplace Observation Study where the project manager makes sure everything goes as per plan.
2. During a study
2a. What is my role during a Workplace Observation Study?
It is important that the Workplace Observation Study is well announced within your organisation in advance. It is also recommended that the employees view the Measuremen video that will be shared.
2b. How can I recognise the Measuremen observers?
All of our observers will be easy to recognise by the blue Measuremen badge that they will be wearing.
2c. During a Workplace Observation Study, how often do you observe and why?
The standard process is to measure between six and nine times per day, unless agreed upon otherwise with the client. This is customizable, depending on the needs and requirements of the client.
2d. You were supposed to measure eight times during the Workplace Observation Study, but I only saw the observers three times. What now?
We always carry out the observations in a ‘low-key’ manner. The reason behind it is to not disturb employees with their day-to-day activity.
2e. I am getting coffee or am currently in a meeting, how do you include me in the Workplace Observation Study?
Our Workplace Observation Study focuses on the use of the workplace, not the activity or output of employees. In case you are not at your desk, we classify your desk as ‘in use, but unoccupied’. We also measure meeting facilities such as conference rooms and coffee corners. We recommend you to continue with your day-to-day activity as if there was no observer or Workplace Observation Study taking place.
2f. Why are all the observers on their mobile phones during a Workplace Observation Study?
All our observers can register their observations via our software that is available on their mobile.
3. After a study
3a. What are you going to do with the insights and results of the Workplace Observation Study?
All the insights are collected and reviewed in the Measuremen Portal. As an independent company, our job is to only measure the occupancy and usage of workspaces. You are in charge of the information itself. We help you understand the data and help to improve your workplace.
3b. When can I expect to have access to these insights?
We strive to provide the complete data in the Measuremen Portal in five working days after the last observation day unless agreed upon otherwise. But before the Workplace Observation Study, you already have access to the Measuremen Portal. Together we confirming the scope, which will be visible in the Measuremen Porta.
3c. Are the insights also discussed with me?
Yes. During a Key Insights Meeting, the insights will be discussed with you on a mutually selected date, unless agreed upon otherwise. Together we talk about the desired outcomes and help you understand the data.
3d. I know someone who can work as an observer, where can they apply for a job?
All information regarding jobs at Measuremen can be found here and you can always send an email to work@measuremen.io