Workplace consulting for ETH

The world of work has changed dramatically in recent years, and the new service from the Real Estate Management department is a direct response to this. The consulting team aims to contribute to the creation of attractive, user-centred working environments at ETH Zurich: “What should happen in the office in the future? Why am I going there? What kind of appeal does the location have?” asks Constanze Weihs, the leading specialist for workplace consulting in the Real Estate Management department. “There is a clear focus on the needs of future users,” she says.

Flexible workplaces

In future, working environments at ETH should be designed to be as flexible as possible so that the space or infrastructure can be changed quickly at any time without major upheaval, e.g. due to building alterations. Modular or mobile solutions or, for example, room-in-room systems are ideal here. “In addition to a more efficient use of space – a requirement set by the government – we are aiming for greater flexibility and standardisation in new working environments,” says Weihs.

Standardisation here includes practices such as desk sharing. “It allows us to free up space for new, additional services,” explains Weihs. “We are creating new work settings that complement the standard workplace and allow a greater range of working options, with spaces for collaboration and focus rooms for concentrated work, for example.”

Other advantages of these new, flexible working environments are obvious: as the spaces can be used more flexibly, the need to move the furniture or carry out modifications at a later date is reduced. This will reduce costs and, in the best-case scenario, users will be more satisfied with the new working environments – environments that will also ensure ETH is fit for the future.

Service for ETH

The consulting service is aimed at interested members of ETH. The team advises them on setting up new working environments, supports projects and carries out feasibility studies on occupancy or future room design. The team advises on when planning applications are needed and how to submit them. What the team does not offer is change management, planning and implementation, removals planning or standard furnishings. Relocations and furnishings in accordance with the current ETH standard are services provided by Campus Services. ETH’s Safety, Security, Health and Environment (SSHE) department provides advice on health-related issues.

Future of Work

With the Future of Work project, ETH Zurich is aiming to establish a holistic “new working environments” concept over the coming years and has already taken various steps. The Workplace Consulting team is involved in working on the concept. The project was initiated by the Vice-Presidency for Personnel Development and Leadership (VPPL).