This report is the first in a series of annual workplace benchmarking reports to be produced by Perkins Eastman. The purpose of this effort is to gain a better understanding of the type and quantity of spaces that their clients need, to identify trends across industries, and—eventually—to track changes over time as we continue to build a robust internal database. Their wide-reaching portfolio of projects, spanning 14 practice areas and 18 interdisciplinary offices, gives Perkins Eastman a unique perspective across industries and regions. Leveraging these valuable internal resources enabled them to better serve their clients, by enhancing the user experience through human-centered, evidence-based design.
The benchmarking review conducted by Perkins Eastman found financial services firms to have a relatively high ratio of open workstations and the highest office density, with the average usable square feet per seat falling significantly below the average of other industries.
The lack of enclosed workspace correlates with a generally low level of satisfaction with sound privacy as well as distractions from people walking too close to workstations.
Technology integration continues to be a top priority for financial services firms. The industry-wide digital transformation has enabled the shift of processes and services to virtual platforms, leading to an increase in remote and flexible work policies.