ABSTRACT
A high-performance workplace supports an organisation’s business objectives and its people. This begins with developing a clear workplace strategy that guides and connects an organisation’s space (design) and people (change management). In 2021, Universal Store, a leading Australian retailer, sought to transition their growing operations to a new purpose-built distribution centre and support office. Universal Store engaged Athena Blue Global to develop a workplace and technology strategy for their support office that would support their culture and future-proof their workspace. This chapter looks at how Universal Store’s workplace strategy was developed, and then implemented, through design and change management, to ensure a workplace that successfully facilitates Universal Store’s new way of working. Key aspects include the role of data in developing a workplace vision and scenario planning, visible leadership, emphasis on developing a connected workforce and providing people with the right spaces, tools and training to learn and adopt a new way of working.
