When Finnair’s previous workspace model and organizational structure no longer supported flexible growth, the company faced a choice between renting additional space or redesigning its operational models. Finnair boldly decided to reform its ways of working, guided by Workspace.
In the development project called #Hotthack, all 750 employees were invited to participate in shaping the future of work. Together with the staff, a total of 35 different concepts were created, addressing new work practices, digital solutions, and furniture. Employees actively contributed to the development, testing, and even implementation of new space types. At the same time, the entire workforce was trained to select the most suitable space for their specific tasks. By integrating digital tools as a core part of the new working methods, the conditions for agile work were ensured. Flexibility and diversity in the work environment were further enhanced by enabling widespread remote work.
The new spaces are divided into areas that support concentration, teamwork, and digital development. By eliminating hundreds of storage units, several employee requests were fulfilled, including the creation of comfortable break and relaxation areas, as well as versatile group workspaces. The multi-functional and adaptable spaces are centered around an internal auditorium, the Creative Lounge, and its adjacent café, which serve as gathering points for the staff. To simplify navigation, distinct colors from Finnair’s brand were selected to communicate the function of different spaces. Additionally, the project’s success was supported by updating AV and IT solutions to enhance digital-age collaboration.
The project had clear cost-saving targets, and in terms of space efficiency, it achieved its goals ahead of schedule. During the project, about a third of the workspace was eliminated, and since then, 200 additional employees have been recruited into the same space.
The new facilities were launched in February 2018.