Workplace Makers Nina Fountain

In an era where all kinds of designers are offering to provide the most human-centred solution, it is nice to speak with someone who puts people at the heart of workplace design. 

Lizzi Whaley, CEO of Spaceworks and Interior Designer, blends innovation with human considerations. Her journey into design began a little unconventionally. A stint at a paint company exposed her to the world of colour and established her interest in interior design.

Lizzi argues that for a design to be successful, it must be both aesthetically pleasing and functional. It's not just about beautiful spaces; it's also about sending a message that employees are cared for and valued. And this leads her to human-centred design—where understanding the emotions and needs of users informs the design process. She places a high value on direct observation.

In her aim to bring a sense of value to people in a workplace, Lizzi will sometimes explore low-cost changes that can make a significant impact. In one office simply installing a hairdryer in the bathroom had a powerful effect, as a response to employees’ needs. This is part of a broader strategy tailored to align with each business’s unique objectives.

Lizzi has adapted her views on evolving workspaces and believes we’ll be in a different place in a year's time - the picture of what hybrid work means for workplaces is still evolving.

If you're intrigued by the role of intelligent, human-centred design in creating not just workspaces, but environments that enrich human experience, then this conversation with Lizzi Whaley will offer both inspiration and practical wisdom.
– Nina
_______
Key moments

00:01:42 - Lizzi Whaley discusses her unconventional start in design, sparked by her job at a paint company. 
00:03:14 - Lizzi shares her views on failure, considering it a stepping stone to learning and growth.
00:03:52 - She elaborates on her nuanced use of colour in design to influence mood, branding, and behaviour. 
00:05:12 - Highlights the need for functional and aesthetically pleasing interior design. This is how employers can send a message of care and value. 
00:07:22 - We discuss human-centred design, and how understanding users' needs and feelings informs the most successful design choices. 
00:09:19 - Lizzi stresses the role of direct observation over surveys in gathering genuine insights for workplace design. 
00:10:27 - A case study on low-cost changes, like installing hairdryers, can make employees feel valued. 
00:13:06 - The necessity for tailored design strategies, adjusted to a business's unique goals. 
00:16:21 - The emotional challenges involved in transitioning from closed to open office spaces. 
00:19:42 - Lizzi’s view on evolving flexible workspaces, now seeing a lack of team connection as a downside. 
00:25:10 - Lizzi notes the increasing role of diversity and sustainability in modern office design.
_______
Connect with Lizzi

Lizzi on LinkedIn 
SpaceWorks on Instagram
Find more episodes here: https://theworkspaceconnection.com/podcast

Workplace Makers is hosted and produced by Nina Fountain and team. To contact us about the podcast, email podcast@theworkspaceconnection.com

Connect with Nina on LinkedIn

Nina is the Founder and Workplace Strategist at The Workspace Connection. Follow the link to book a free consultation call >> https://www.theworkspaceconnection.com/information-call

These days, everyone is a Workplace Strategist. If you’re running a workplace project you can turn in any direction and find someone promising to deliver a Workplace Strategy, but not necessarily a good one. 

I recently had an illuminating chat with Ivan Chew, an independent Senior Workplace Strategist. As a Workplace Strategist myself, we had a bit to chat about and this conversation was a little longer than usual. 

Ivan brings a background in building and construction as a Quantity Surveyor (QS) and Project Manager (PM), meaning that he knows what it costs to deliver a workplace project. 

But there is more to the conversation. It’s not often that a QS or PM also has an Honours in Psychology and enjoys improv as his creative outlet.

Ivan’s workplace advice draws on his knowledge and experience in the science of human behaviour, which is exactly what leaders should be demanding from their Workplace Strategists - people who are smart about human behaviour.

I talked with Ivan about how he got into Workplace Strategy. He was frustrated at  short term-ism which led to either long-term costs or complaints and predictably, substandard business outcomes. 

He shared a few specific examples of businesses where the solution was actually less expensive, and more effective and the right data was at the heart of these outcomes.

We agreed that better people data is critical for better workplace outcomes. 

If you are curious about the role of Workplace Strategy in building a successful workplace design, you'll find this episode highly insightful. 

– Nina
Key moments

- 00:00:31 - Ivan Chew is a Senior Workplace Strategist who most recently held a senior workplace role at the Australian National Maritime Museum and is now an independent consultant.
- 00:01:33 - We discuss Ivan's research on work settings (desk types) and he advocates  low-partition desks to boost creativity and quiet rooms for focused tasks.
- 00:04:18 - Ivan's background in Quantity Surveying led him to Workplace Strategy, out of frustration.
- 00:08:51 - The value of a growth mindset in leadership for adapting to market shifts.
- 00:10:21 - Ivan shares an example of the opposite mindset and how to get workplace leaders with a fixed mindset over the line.
- 00:14:19 - Ivan explains his Workplace Strategy process.
- 00:26:32 - An example of a Singaporean company's progress from compromised trade secrets to more productive workplace behaviours, through workplace design.
- 00:28:11 - Ivan comments on the evolving mental models of workplaces in the hybrid work era, warning against uninspiring offices.
- 00:33:37 - Ivan’s final comments advise an open mind and reliance on data for successful workplace planning.
Resources: Carol Dweck's influential work on Growth Mindset
Connect with Ivan: Workspace Insights on LinkedIn and Ivan's LinkedIn profile
Find more episodes here: https://theworkspaceconnection.com/podcast

Workplace Makers is hosted and produced by Nina Fountain and team. To contact us about the podcast, email podcast@theworkspaceconnection.com

Connect with Nina on LinkedIn

Nina is the Founder and Workplace Strategist at The Workspace Connection. Follow the link to book a free consultation call >> https://www.theworkspaceconnection.com/information-call

Is it possible to redefine the concept of a workplace and build a more genuine, people-centred environment? 
I had a refreshing conversation with Ben Whitehouse recently. Ben is the Chief Workplace and Sustainability Officer at the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand - this is the large regulatory body ensuring the smooth running of New Zealand’s aviation industry. No small task. 

Ben is also a long-distance commuter (travelling two hours each way) and a lover of steak and cheese pies. But for this conversation, we focused on his role as a decision-maker leading workplace transformation.

Ben emphasised the importance of authentic leadership, as well as the connection between leadership and culture in building a desirable workplace.

At CAA the workplace is defined to include various locations such as offices and vehicles. They need to understand the needs of employees, and animals in their work, meaning that Ben's take on the workplace is rather innovative.

We talked about the tension between efficiency and experience - Ben sees this tension as an asset.

Ben's view on continual learning and data-driven decisions is that it is central to creating a great workplace: “If you think you're going to get it right, it's probably not going to be right. It's actually okay to try things… It's okay to push the technology and push the environment.” 

I asked Ben whether there are any myths in how leaders see the workplace today - does he see any areas where people have blinkers on? He talked about working from home - I'll let you tune in to find out more.

Ben's concluding thoughts served as an inspiration to think big, push boundaries, and be unafraid to try new things in the modern workplace. 

You'll be inspired by this one.
- Nina

Key moments


00:01:57 - Ben's thoughts around the contribution of his move from the UK to New Zealand to his current perspective
00:03:31 - Ben's executive role as a workplace decision maker and its effect on people and NZ travellers' experiences
00:04:55 - His views on authentic leadership and understanding the team
00:07:24 - Connections between leadership and culture; building a desirable workplace
00:11:20 - Ben's broad experience of the workplace, including offices, vehicles, and other business locations
00:12:16 - Employee needs, personalisation, and animal welfare
00:14:22 - The healthy tension between efficiency and workplace experience
00:15:28 - The concept of 'Just Culture' and importance of learning and data-driven decisions
00:17:30 - People-centred workplace discussions; challenges and barriers, including financial aspects
00:19:45 - Ben's insights on personalising workplace experience and small details leading to satisfaction
00:21:43 - Ben busts a myth about a key modern workplace stereotype
00:26:59 - Ben's concluding thoughts; inspiration to think big in the modern workplace and push boundaries

Connect with Ben Whitehouse on LinkedIn
Find more episodes here: https://theworkspaceconnection.com/podcast

Workplace Makers is hosted and produced by Nina Fountain and team. To contact us about the podcast, email podcast@theworkspaceconnection.com

Connect with Nina on LinkedIn

Nina is the Founder and Workplace Strategist at The Workspace Connection. Follow the link to book a free consultation call >> https://www.theworkspaceconnection.com/information-call

In the latest episode of the Workplace Makers podcast, we talk with John Baldoni, a distinguished luminary in the field of leadership and management.
Working with leaders during and pre- the hybrid world of work, John has come to see the need for 'grace,' especially in times of crisis. Grace is intentional acts of kindness, distinct from mere empathy or compassion. We talk about the difference this makes to a harmonious work environment and effective leadership.

It won't surprise you that we discuss community and belonging. John refers to these as a basic need, particularly when people are working in a hybrid workplace model.

John’s view is that the future of work will lean heavily on flexible, hybrid models. But he cites a word of warning, borrowing from Cali Williamson Yost,  that one size does not fit all in workplace environments.

Given that hybrid creates complexities we’re not particularly used to dealing with, I particularly wanted to pick John’s brains on how leaders can collectively make sometimes unpopular decisions. He emphasised mutual respect and open communication.

If you're looking to get a further understanding of leadership in the hybrid working age, you'll find this a jaunt through some familiar concepts, with fresh insight. 
-Nina

Key moments
00:01:41 - John talks about his transition from senior-level speechwriter to leadership expert. 00:04:47 - John dives into the concept of 'grace,' particularly its importance during crises.00:06:34 - He clarifies the definition of grace, along with its role in leadership, differentiating it from empathy and compassion. 00:09:41 - John discusses community and belonging, relating it to Maslow's hierarchy and how grace facilitates it00:10:37 - We discuss building community in a hybrid workplace00:11:09 - John opines that the future of work is hybrid, emphasising flexibility and citing Callie Williamson Yost's views. 00:14:20 - The topic moves to learning from mistakes and poor leadership in the workplace. 00:16:20 - John introduces ‘the dignity of work’, advocating for valuing employees for a better work environment. 00:17:12 - We discuss common employer mistakes in today's hybrid work model. 00:20:12 - John concludes by highlighting the importance of community and fair compensation in staff retention. 00:21:16 - Discussion on navigating unpopular decisions while maintaining workplace harmony. 00:23:43 - John advises on self-care for leaders, recommending mindfulness and exercise to fend off burnout. 00:28:08 - Tips on managing resistance to change are given, with a focus on open communication. 00:30:30 - The conversation ends with John discussing the impact and ethics of AI in the future workplace.Connect with John

John on X (previously Twitter) @JohnBaldoni
John on LinkedIn
John's website
Find more episodes here: https://theworkspaceconnection.com/podcast

Workplace Makers is hosted and produced by Nina Fountain and team. To contact us about the podcast, email podcast@theworkspaceconnection.com

Connect with Nina on LinkedIn

Nina is the Founder and Workplace Strategist at The Workspace Connection. Follow the link to book a free consultation call >> https://www.theworkspaceconnection.com/information-call

Online meetings, love them or hate them, have a central role in building cultures where engagement is at the heart. I've noticed a much greater focus on the details of excellent execution in online meeting facilitation.
On this podcast episode I had an illuminating conversation with Heather Levitt Martinez, change management expert and founder of TechHost Academy, about how to make these online meetings successful. 
With Heather's unique insights as a visual practitioner-turned-online sessions specialist, it was great to dig into the core issues faced during virtual meetings. Heather talked about what distinguishes an approach that fosters engagement and productivity, and one that creates a 'fail' on these counts. Tactics included breaking groups into smaller units and giving quieter members a voice.
Heather outlined the pivotal role of a TechHost in ensuring smooth and inclusive meetings, from managing technology to facilitating diverse contributions.
We also dug into the tangible aspects of tech hosting - which platform is her favourite?
Heather underscored the significance of a strong organisational culture for creating the best meetings. Also the impact of leaders modelling the behaviours they wish to see.
You'll enjoy this episode if you're a leader trying to get your head around online meetings.
- Nina

Key moments
00:01:50 - Heather's journey from a visual practitioner to an online sessions expert, or 'TechHost'00:04:00 - Heather highlights the necessity of creating efficient and equitable online experiences in virtual meetings00:06:00 - We consider the importance of promoting equity in online meetings. Examples of how to do this include using breakout rooms and encouraging participation from all members.00:09:00 - Heather explains the critical role of a TechHost in ensuring smooth and inclusive meetings.00:11:00 - Practicalities of tech hosting, including necessary equipment, and Heather's preference for Zoom as a hosting platform.00:13:00 - Heather discusses previous issues with MSTeams, now resolved.00:14:00 - We discuss what happens when leaders model desired behaviours for successful meeting leadership.00:15:00 - Heather talks about the significance of fostering a strong culture for running successful online meetings.00:17:00 - Heather introduces her TechHost AcademyConnect with Heather
Heather's LinkedIn profile
TechHost Academy on YouTube
Let's Letter Together on Instagram

Resources mentioned in the show
TechHost Academy
The Horror of Online Meetings by Brian Tarallo


Find more episodes here: https://theworkspaceconnection.com/podcast

Workplace Makers is hosted and produced by Nina Fountain and team. To contact us about the podcast, email podcast@theworkspaceconnection.com

Connect with Nina on LinkedIn

Nina is the Founder and Workplace Strategist at The Workspace Connection. Follow the link to book a free consultation call >> https://www.theworkspaceconnection.com/information-call

I had the pleasure of discussing the evolving role of Facilities Management (FM) with Nathan McLean, an industry leader in Workplace Experience since his key role at Xero.
Nathan outlined a clear vision for a customer-centric approach to the workplace – FM has now grown beyond maintenance of buildings and utilities; it is now about nurturing a fulfilling workplace environment that can boost productivity and overall satisfaction.
We talked about how this works and what FM’ers can be doing:
Collecting qualitative data through direct conversations and observationsGathering quantitative data through technology and sensorsEnsuring effective communication and information disseminationI am always fascinated by how people get interested in workplaces, and Nathan shared that he was profoundly influenced by his former colleagues, particularly one of his early managers.
We ducked into the realm of leadership and personal development to find out which thought leaders he would recommend and you’ll find his recommendations below.
Lastly, you might think that FM is operational mainly, but Nathan  highlighted the necessity of clarity in an organisation’s workplace strategy for FM to be able to deliver in this environment.
Nathan brings a future-focused vision for facilities management, underpinned by a strong customer-centric ethos and a keen understanding of the dynamic nature of the workplace environment.
You’ll enjoy this conversation if you are considering whether FM is the right area to be supporting your workplace strategy.
– Nina

Key Moments

- 00:01:45 - Nathan's journey with Xero, an NZ-based and international cloud-based accounting software company.
- 00:02:40 - Nathan describes the challenges and excitement of building offices around the world for Xero.
- 00:03:35 - Nathan discusses what Workplace Experience means to him, emphasising its wholistic nature and the importance of customer perception.
- 00:05:00 - Nathan outlines the three spheres that make up a great Workplace Experience: physical space, technology, and people processes and culture.
- 00:06:25 -  Xero's focus on a human-centric approach and why it was significant to their workplace strategy.
- 00:06:40 - Nathan describes why Xero invests in making life easier and more enjoyable for their people at work.
- 00:07:30 - Nathan shares his personal motivations for being in the field and his philosophy of putting people first.
- 00:08:35 - Nathan's decision to join Xero and the appeal of creating a new kind of workplace experience.
- 00:09:40 - Physical space as a tool for productivity, engagement, and well-being.
- 00:11:50 - The approach of many companies to reinvent their spaces to better serve staff who come in.
- 00:12:45 - The importance of creating a space that doesn't just encourage people to come in, but also removes barriers for them, making the experience frictionless and exciting.
- 00:13:00 The importance of leveraging technology to create a flexible, adaptive, and friction-free office space
- 00:15:00 - The shift in people's attitudes towards the office and how facilities management needs to respond
- 00:17:00 - Employers need to support t
Find more episodes here: https://theworkspaceconnection.com/podcast

Workplace Makers is hosted and produced by Nina Fountain and team. To contact us about the podcast, email podcast@theworkspaceconnection.com

Connect with Nina on LinkedIn

Nina is the Founder and Workplace Strategist at The Workspace Connection. Follow the link to book a free consultation call >> https://www.theworkspaceconnection.com/information-call