The problems with Agile working and the office environment.

Agile working and workflows have brought significant improvements to productivity and team connection in the workplace. By keeping teams aligned around shared goals and ensuring everyone stays informed, Agile methodologies foster collaboration and efficiency. Tools like visual journey maps and task lists have proven invaluable for tracking progress and identifying areas where support is needed. However, the tools and practices used in Agile workflows can also create challenges for the work environment.

The Challenges of Agile Workflows

1. Visual Overload from Bright Post-it Notes
   Agile tools often rely heavily on disposable post-it notes in vivid, clashing colours. While effective in capturing attention, these bright colours can also introduce unnecessary stress by demanding focus, even when not relevant. It begs the question: if you wouldn’t paint your walls these colours, why cover them with such notes?

2. Wall Space Constraints in Open Plan Offices
   Agile workflows require substantial wall space for journey maps and task lists, which is increasingly hard to find in open-plan offices. Teams often resort to using access ways or lift lobbies, creating discomfort and privacy issues. Temporary boards—made of cardboard or plastic—are leaned against walls, compromising both aesthetics and functionality.

3. Clutter from Single-Use Panels
   In shared spaces, teams frequently use large, floppy panels for stand-ups, only to have these panels clutter the office afterward. These boards are difficult to store or dispose of and often end up stacked against walls, desks, or even windows, causing disorganisation.

A.WORKS: Solutions Tailored for Agile Teams

At A.WORKS, we identified these challenges and set out to resolve them holistically. Instead of focusing solely on individual components like walls or whiteboards, we addressed the entire Agile workflow, from the smallest details to the broader office design.

The a.note Range: Thoughtful Colour Curation

Our a.note range reimagines sticky notes with a carefully curated colour palette. These notes are designed to be distinct yet cohesive, minimising visual stress and ensuring a harmonious work environment. They are colour-matched to our acoustic range, ensuring a seamless integration with other elements of the workspace.

Tablets: Maximising Existing Wall Space

To optimise wall space, we developed lightweight, reusable Tablets available in two sizes. Featuring a magnetic whiteboard surface and a colour-matched acoustic felt backing, they can be hung to absorb sound, conceal work, or add colour. When not in use, these Tablets fit neatly onto our Agile Wall wall or mobile whiteboards, keeping the space tidy and efficient.

Agile Wall System: Flexible Wall Solutions

For offices lacking sufficient wall space, our Agile Wall system offers a semi-permanent solution. Designed for quick installation, it provides the flexibility to reconfigure layouts without the cost and complexity of fixed builds. The system accommodates CMS’s data and power products, enabling power and data connections wherever needed. Monitor brackets further enhance functionality, making it easier to position screens exactly where they’re required.

With features like corner windows for natural light and sound-absorbing acoustic panels, Agile Wall ensures a productive and comfortable environment while maintaining airflow and sprinkler compliance. Its modularity allows managers and designers to control layouts, freeing teams to focus on their work.

Creating a Better Agile Workspace

At A.WORKS, we’ve considered every aspect of Agile workflows to deliver products that improve both productivity and the office environment. From reducing visual stress with curated colours to creating adaptable, clutter-free wall solutions, we help teams work better together.

If your Agile office faces any of these challenges, reach out to us. Let’s transform your workspace into an environment that supports collaboration, efficiency, and well-being.