Herman Miller Inc.
Proposed Project for the
MSU Industrial Math Students
Workplace Usage and Optimization
Background: Our patented Space Utilization Service
collects accurate occupancy data through unobtrusive sensors (motes) that attach
to the underside of chairs in workstations, offices, and conference rooms for
three weeks. All of this reported data is evaluated and recommendations of how
clients can best adapt their space to be both more efficient and more effective.
Efficient spaces reduce their overall real estate costs, maximize the use of
space, lower the energy use, and better support their work flow processes.
Effective spaces are an engaging space where our clients’ work force wants to
work, and are attractive settings, that also aligns with the way our clients
naturally work and go about their business.
Project: The project can be broken down into two parts: What is
the correlation between individual and collaborative space and measuring vibe;
and Optimal breadth of study and optimal mix of space types.
Correlation between individual and collaborative space and measuring vibe: What
is the correlation between the usage of individual space, collaborative spaces
and the in between space such as walkways. For example, when the
utilization for individual spaces decreases or increases, where is the change –
is it in conference rooms, informal collaborative spaces, walkways, etc.
How can the current data collected be used to measure the energy and vibe
(activity) in a space. What additional data should be collected in order
to better measure this?
Optimal breadth of study and optimal mix of space types: There are two
parts to this inquiry. First, when conducting research or space utilization
studies, how much of the customer’s space should be monitored in order to
accurately represent the entire floor or building? Secondly, using the data of
the customers’ space utilization studies, how can HMI identify the optimal mix
of conference room quantity and size to maximize utilization based on occupancy
utilization patterns observed for a customer’s conference rooms as well as the
optimal mix of dedicated workstations, shared and/or open workstations.
Top of Page
