Want to know how to get it right in office design and development? Find out in this discussion below with Heidi Hendy, CEO at H. Hendy Associates, who recently chatted with GlobeSt.com on the subject in celebration of our 15th anniversary. According to Hendy, today's office design and development are getting it right by focusing on improved productivity and engagement.

GlobeSt.com: How is office design and development being approached today than say 10 years ago? What are the reasons why in your opinion?

Heidi Hendy: Office design and development are being approached very differently than 10 years ago because people are functioning differently: all people. We are all guilty of singling out Millennials as the reason behind all of these shifts, but the truth is that these individuals are merely the influencers. All professionals, of all generations, are seeking more collaboration than we used to be looking for. Everyone is becoming more interested in reaping the benefits of the ability to work anywhere. And many team members, ranging from CEOs to recent grads, are interested in working in a building with athletic facilities and top technological offerings. There is no question that the millennial generation is at the heart of this shift, and accommodating for Millennials' preferences is very important for recruitment and retention, but what started as the preferences of youngest generation in the workforce have fast become the expectations of the whole workforce.

GlobeSt.com: What are some of the ways to help foster this shift?

Hendy: More decision makers than ever are taking the time and resources to approach their office spaces as strategic tools for their business success, and many are starting to understand that everything begins with the big differentiators: productivity and engagement. Overall productivity in an office is affected by so many factors, but there are some straightforward ways to ensure that you are fostering an environment where employees can be productive. Tailored technology, higher ceilings and more windows that let in natural light are proven drivers of increased productivity. Likewise, low panels, less private offices and more collaboration and recreation areas have proven to positively affect employee engagement.

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Natalie Dolce

Natalie Dolce, editor-in-chief of GlobeSt.com and GlobeSt. Real Estate Forum, is responsible for working with editorial staff, freelancers and senior management to help plan the overarching vision that encompasses GlobeSt.com, including short-term and long-term goals for the website, how content integrates through the company’s other product lines and the overall quality of content. Previously she served as national executive editor and editor of the West Coast region for GlobeSt.com and Real Estate Forum, and was responsible for coverage of news and information pertaining to that vital real estate region. Prior to moving out to the Southern California office, she was Northeast bureau chief, covering New York City for GlobeSt.com. Her background includes a stint at InStyle Magazine, and as managing editor with New York Press, an alternative weekly New York City paper. In her career, she has also covered a variety of beats for M magazine, Arthur Frommer's Budget Travel, FashionLedge.com, and Co-Ed magazine. Dolce has also freelanced for a number of publications, including MSNBC.com and Museums New York magazine.