Nudge. The influence of design on social learning in work environments

Abstract

What learning opportunities do we have in our work environments? Nowadays, we recognize that despite their name, work environments are far more than just places to work. Studies show that spatial office design has a significant impact on the performance, motivation and well-being of employees. The transformation of the workplace under the influence of New Work, puts new demands on employees' skills and learning behavior. In order to attract and retain talent in the long term, continuous learning opportunities are needed to support employees in their professional and personal development. Frequent feedback is a relevant factor in promoting social learning processes in an agile work environments. The question therefore arises: How does the design influence a conducive environment for feedback situations in order to promote social learning in work environments and thus support a strong work culture? The topic of New Work was deliberately approached from a social perspective. Non-verbal communication and behavioral patterns were analyzed with the help of an independently developed interview methodology that makes design topics tangible for people outside the design context. Key factors for essential trust and well-being during feedback situations were translated into design features inspired by behavioral design. The name NUDGE refers to specific impulses that guide our behavior in a positive direction, completely without pressure, but through design and thus encourages us to enter into dialogue. In this way, Nudge creates an environment that encourages frequent feedback in the workplace, thereby supporting daily social learning and strengthening the working culture in the long term.