Is Productivity Predicated by Work Environments?

In 1986, Steve Jobs was forced out of Apple, the child he had birthed. But, undeterred, he acquired a small computer manufacturer named Pixar. In 2000, the growth of the company prompted Jobs to move to a new space. Initially it was decided that there would be 3 separate buildings with separate offices for the key people. But Jobs decided to go with one single building with one huge open space and an atrium in the center.

“The philosophy behind this design is that it’s good to put the most important function at the heart of the building. Well, what’s our most important function? It’s the interaction of our employees. That’s why Steve put a big empty space there. He wanted to create an open area for people to always be talking to each other.” – Ed Catmull, the president of Pixar.

Jobs felt that this environment will be a catalyst for different cultures to work together and collaborate.

Brad Bird, the director of “The Incredibles” and “Ratatouille,” said, “The atrium initially might seem like a waste of space. But Steve realised that when people run into each other when they make eye contact, things happen.”

Some of the key learning that can be derived from the wisdom of Jobs:

•       Team Building Training – There is tremendous power in teams but it is important to provide conducive environments
•      LeadershipTraining – It is the responsibility of the leader to ponder, plan and provide the needs of their people
•         OutboundTraining – Nature is a force to reckon with and when used appropriately, it can enhance productivity significantly