ABSTRACT
The potential for environmental control at the individual level is determined by the adjustability of the physical elements within the workstation, such as: task lighting, shelves, storage, work surface height, level of enclosure, VDT screen and keyboard, and HVAC system (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning). Control over these elements may contribute to comfort, environmental satisfaction, privacy, communication, and other perceptions that are related to effectiveness and quality of work life. Many of these features are also related to ergonomic and health considerations. At the individual level, research suggests that environmental control over workstation components has a direct relationship to performance. A flexible work environment may also enhance job control, by permitting adjustments to the physical environment to be made according to individual task demands or the needs of team workers at a particular stage of a project.
