Journal of Psychology & Behavioral Science

Meeting Member Needs in Coworking Spaces: Interventions and Systems Science Principles
Wendell C. Taylor1, PhD, MPH

Abstract
Introduction-One aftereffect of the COVID-19 pandemic is a renewed interest in alternatives to the traditional work office. An emerging work arrangement is the coworking space, whichcombinesthe structure and community of the office withthe freedom and independence of freelance work.No study has evaluatedwhether Booster Breaks (brief work breaks that include health-promoting activities such as meditation, rhythmic breathing, and lightphysical activity)and work sprints (public accountability among colleagues regarding short-term work goals) can enhance the coworking experience. Method-A literature search identified five critical needs of thecoworking experience: community, collaboration, amenities, location, and cost.Booster Breaks and work sprints wereanalyzed from the perspective of these five needs. Results-Booster Breaks and work sprints contributed favorably to community, collaboration, and amenities in coworking spaces and promoted social interaction.Improving the needs of coworking space participants has implications for health, wellbeing, job satisfaction, and personal fulfillment. Conclusions-Combining Booster Breaks and work sprints can increase work productivity and improve employee health and wellbeing in coworking spaces. Future research is recommended to document the effectiveness and outcomes of Booster Breaks and work sprints to advance the evolving autonomous community of coworking spaces. Hybrid arrangements are the future of office work.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jpbs.v11n2a3