Trend Setting: How Office Art Improves Productivity

by Alex Oke

Published on this site: June 13th, 2005 - See more articles from this month...

Does the way your employees perceive their physical work environment have an impact on their job performance? You bet your break room it does!

In a recent study conducted by the Business Committee for the Arts, in collaboration with the International Association for Professional Art Advisors, researchers established a positive relationship between on-the-job productivity and the presence of art in the workplace. Along with productivity, the study addressed other human factors including stress, morale and creativity. The survey polled employees from a variety of companies across industry lines, and demonstrated that art in the workplace:

• Helps combat stress

• Improves employee morale

• Heightens creativity

• Improves productivity

• Encourages expression and creativity

• Encourages diversity appreciation

What are the implications of this finding?

The inclusion of artwork in company offices has a strategic importance in business planning. The inclusion of art in your corporate budget may also aid in managing human resources and in marketing.

Consider the following immediate benefits of including art in your company's marketing plans:

1. The inclusion of art in company offices may be an excellent marketing strategy, especially if the company is in the service sector where outside customers visit company offices on a daily basis. Many medical service providers in private practice continuously acquire art to support a sense of calmness and security.
   
   
2. Strategically placing pieces of artwork in company buildings is a strong public relations tool, setting the business apart from competitors.

In the long run, the inclusion of art in your strategic plans displays the company's sense of social responsibility, teaching employees and customers to appreciate the value of art in society. It also enhances your work environment, fostering the acceptance of diversity and boosting creativity among employees.

So, you think including art in your company office is a great idea. Now you're faced with a fundamental problem: how do you go about acquiring pieces of artwork?

Begin the process with a step-by-step analysis of the company's needs. Buying artwork is an important decision that requires substantial consideration. Contemplate the following points:

• What form of art, and in what medium? Oil paintings on canvas, wooden sculptures, photographs. (Our recommendation would be hand made oil paintings on canvas. They are easy to maintain and oil paintings provide the most desired affect.)

• Themes and content (Nudes and morbid imagery are a no-no!)

• Quantity vs. quality: few expensive pieces or numerous cheaper ones.

• Budget: don't spend what you don't have.

• Design and décor issues (sometimes it's better to leave this to professionals)

After making the best decision for your company, it's time to get the ball rolling.

1. Designate the responsibility of proposal preparation, procurement and collection management within the company, or contract from outside.
   
   
2. Consult with professionals in the art business.
   
   
3. Complete the acquisition and arrange for installation.
   
   
4. You may arrange an open house after the acquisition where employees should be encouraged to objectively appreciate the new collection. (This helps to stimulate creativity and promote diversity appreciation!)

Congratulations, you've now joined the list of trend setting companies who motivate their employees to greater heights with the inspiration of art. A job well done!

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Alex Oke has worked in the art business for over 4 years. For the last 2 years he has headed OverstockArt http://www.OverstockArt.com an experienced online retailer of hand made oil paintings with the best prices and quality on the web. Contact OverstockArt today for a free consultation about your office décor and budget requirements at 1-866-686-1888.