As one of the largest global financial services companies, Barclays Bank is keen to talk up increased operational efficiencies in the wake of the economic downturn.
That being the case, it has saved 20 per cent on unused office space at its premium Canary Wharf head office in London, simply by introducing new desk and room management software.
Although continually under pressure to provide additional office space at premium rates, the bank's own research identified that 20 per cent of desk space in the offices was unused at any given time and that there were between 20-30 per cent no shows' for booked meeting rooms.
The bank wanted to introduce a shared desks programme and improve the management of meeting rooms to increase the efficient use of its existing space.
It selected browser-based Condeco room and desk booking system from workspace management specialist RNM Systems, which allowed for a roll out to all Barclays' main office sites across the UK in one go.
"The Condeco room and desk booking solution has enabled new ways of working and better use of space," said Andrew Howells of the bank's facilities management arm. "Six months ago we had a static work environment, whereas we now have a more dynamic and flexible work environment to cater for individual staff workspace requirements at any given time."
The software allows staff to book their own desks and meeting rooms, saving not only on space, but also the associated administrative management costs. While, the software's space utilisation reports now provide a key source of space management information.
"Desk utilisation reports are a key tool in selling the desk sharing concept to the business," added Howells.
"Introducing wireless working, desk sharing and integrating what IT are doing in with the facilities work place strategy will offer the ability to provide a more clinical working environment."
The Condeco software also provides car parking and visitor management capabilities, through the one centralised, web-based application.
