The Power Of Ergonomics In Indian Workplaces

According to the latest Gensler Global Workplace Survey, which has studied the link between workplace design and business performance for nearly two decades, India stands out as the only country where the Experience Index (EXI) surpasses the Workplace Index (WPI). This means that, while workspaces in India are performing well in supporting tasks and productivity, employees’ emotional experiences in these spaces are rated even higher.

This distinction offers a unique opportunity to explore how the principles of ergonomics—the science of designing workplaces to fit the needs of workers—can play a pivotal role in enhancing both the effectiveness of workspaces and the experience of employees.

Why ergonomics is crucial in India’s evolving work landscape

Ergonomics has always been about more than just comfort; it’s about creating environments that support optimal performance while also contributing to the well-being of individuals.

The positive relationship between workplace design and employee performance is well-documented, and in India, where the workplace experience is already rated highly, ergonomics can serve as the critical ingredient to elevate this experience even further.

In the context of the Gensler survey, workplace effectiveness is primarily concerned with the functionality of the workspace—how well it supports employees' tasks, collaboration, and access to resources. However, as workplace experience measures factors such as beauty, inspiration, and how valued employees feel, it’s clear that an effective workspace is no longer enough. Companies must also consider how to design spaces that evoke positive emotional responses and foster a sense of well-being.

And this is where ergonomics comes to the fore. Proper ergonomic design can enhance both the effectiveness of a workspace by reducing physical strain, increasing productivity, and optimising layout, and the experience by contributing to comfort, reducing stress, and promoting a sense of care and value for employees.

India’s unique workplace experience

India’s position in the Gensler survey is noteworthy because it reflects the country’s emphasis on the emotional and psychological aspects of the workplace. While other countries still grapple with the challenge of balancing function with experience, Indian workplaces are making strides in nurturing both. This emerging focus on human-centred design aligns perfectly with the principles of ergonomics.

India’s culture places a high value on personal relationships, community, and respect for individuals, and these values are often reflected in workplace design. For instance, the growing trend of activity-based working, where employees have access to a variety of spaces (from focus spaces to collaboration areas), not only fosters productivity but also addresses the emotional well-being of workers. By allowing employees to choose the environment that best suits their task, organisations are not only enhancing effectiveness but also making employees feel valued.

However, the focus on experience should not diminish the importance of ergonomic best practices. As India’s workplace landscape grows, the need to incorporate ergonomics into all aspects of office design becomes even more important. Whether it’s ensuring comfortable seating in all types of setting, adjustable desks and tables, optimal lighting, or creating environments that encourage movement and reduce strain, ergonomics can elevate the emotional experience of employees, ultimately driving motivation and satisfaction.

The impact of ergonomics on business performance

The connection between effective ergonomics and business outcomes is well-established. According to the Gensler survey, workplaces that excel in both effectiveness and experience are linked to improved employee performance, greater job satisfaction, and higher levels of innovation. In India, where workplace experience is already valued, incorporating ergonomics into the design of physical spaces can take this emotional connection even further.

For instance, using ergonomic furniture and equipment which are designed to support extended hours of work without compromising comfort, can significantly reduce physical discomfort, leading to fewer distractions and a more engaged workforce. Additionally, an innovative sit-stand desk provides employees with flexibility to shift between sitting and standing postures, fostering movement throughout the day. This adaptability not only enhances physical well-being but also helps employees feel more energised.

By integrating products which promotes movement with an easy-to-use sit-stand solution, businesses can create collaborative spaces and areas designed for work and relaxation. These setups support employee well-being and productivity, creating a positive feedback loop where employees feel valued and motivated to perform at their best.

The role of ergonomics in supporting employee health and wellbeing

India’s rapid urbanisation and the rise of flexible, hybrid work models also bring challenges to workplace well-being. Additionally, Indian workplaces, particularly in tech hubs and large cities, often deal with high levels of stress and long working hours.

Integrating ergonomic principles into workspace design can promote mental clarity, reduce stress, and prevent burnout. When employees have access to comfortable, health-conscious environments, their experience is one of being cared for, which directly impacts how valued they feel—aligning perfectly with the findings from the Gensler survey.

The need for holistic workplace design

As India’s workplace culture continues to mature, the integration of ergonomics into office design will be crucial to sustaining positive workplace experiences. By focusing not just on how spaces function but also on how they make employees feel, businesses can create workplaces that support both mental and physical health, leading to greater employee satisfaction, retention, and overall business performance.

Mark Consolla

Guest Author Global Vice President-Product Management, Humanscale