Testing the future before rolling it out
A working prototype with about 150 people, before a wider headquarters move.
Challenge
NBBJ was designing the interiors of Warner Bros.' new headquarters around activity-based ways of working. Open questions remained about seating, team routines and how work would flow in the new space. Testing them while the design could still change meant the answers could shape the building people moved into.
The decision
A showroom shows people the future. A prototype lets them work in it.
As part of NBBJ's design team, I proposed turning the static workplace showroom into a working prototype lab, so the change could be tested while the headquarters was still being designed.
What I did
Results
Measured through pilot participant surveys and space-use data.
Project recognition: the Second Century workplace, with interiors by NBBJ, won the 2023 REmmy Award for Most Innovative Workplace of the Year (over 50,000 sq ft). The award belongs to the whole project team.
Where this applies
Any change you can pilot before you scale it: a new workplace, a new platform, a new operating model or a new way of working.
In their words
“He takes in all of the info, feedback (good and bad) and puts it to use in his change management activities. He is able to read a group's dynamics and personalities and bring people out in a way that feels organic and natural.”— Pauline C., Project Manager, Warner Bros. · client
People experienced the future workplace before anyone asked them to move into it.
The pilot gave them a say while the design could still change.