In addition, these certifications guide organizations to develop spaces that positively impact the physical and mental health of employees.
The concept of Workplace goes beyond the physical space, combining design, culture and technology to create environments that drive organizational performance and people's well-being.
What is Fitwel and WELL certification?
The Fitwel certification, created by the CDC and GSA and operated by the Center for Active Design, encourages design and operation practices that improve the health and well-being of occupants, and is therefore accessible and adaptable to different types of buildings.
The WELL Building Standard, developed by IWBI, assesses the impact of the built environment on human health, considering ten concepts — such as air, water, light, movement and mind — and establishes measurable goals to promote corporate well-being.
Workplace strategies
Workplace strategies align the physical environment and organizational culture with business goals and employee well-being. Among the main pillars are:
• Flexibility and adaptability
• Support Technology
• Organizational culture
• Sustainability and ESG practices
In this way, integrating Workplace Strategy with Fitwel and WELL certification enhances results, generating benefits such as:
• Improved physical and mental health
• Increased engagement and productivity
• Talent retention
• Enhancement and reputation of buildings
How workplace and Fitwel and WELL certification connect
People and culture: Workplace translates culture insights into space decisions, while Fitwel prioritizes physical, mental, and social health.
Space planning: Workplace defines typologies and density; in turn, Fitwel guides environmental comfort, natural light and stimulation of movement.
Technology and data: Sensors and dashboards measure usage and engagement, thus providing evidence to maintain or raise the Fitwel score.
Employee experience: Workplace delivers environments of purpose and engagement; in addition, Fitwel measures perception of well-being.
Sustainability and ESG: Workplace promotes efficiency and social value; at the same time, Fitwel reinforces the social pillar within ESG.
Practical example
When redesigning an office: Workplace identifies a need for more collaborative and disconnecting spaces; in parallel, Fitwel transforms these areas into zones of stress reduction and mental health promotion. The result, therefore, is a functional, strategic, and measurable project.
Key elements assessed
• Air quality and ventilation
• Natural and artificial lighting
• Thermal and acoustic comfort
• Access to green areas and rest
• Encouraging healthy habits and active mobility
• Mental health support and sense of community
• Material management and reduction of toxic compounds
• Implementation and culture of well-being
Integrating Workplace + Fitwel/WELL involves steps:
• Diagnostic evaluation
• Strategic planning
• Implementation of improvements
• Continuous monitoring
• Engagement and communication
In this context, the design of spaces directly impacts health and behavior, considering lighting, ventilation, acoustics, ergonomics, and biophilia. In addition, open spaces, rest areas, access to nature, and variety of environments favor interaction, focus, and productivity.
Culture as a central element
No space generates well-being without a healthy organizational culture. Therefore, leadership that values breaks, dialogue, empathy, and flexibility strengthens balanced habits and integrates well-being into corporate identity.
Benefits of a workplace focused on well-being:
• Increased productivity and engagement
• Attracting and retaining talent
• Strengthening the organizational culture
• Balanced physical and mental health
• Sustainability and social responsibility, connecting WELL and Fitwel to the ESG agenda
Why invest in these pillars?
Investing in Workplace strategies aligned with Fitwel certification and WELL is not just about creating functional spaces, but also about building environments that promote health, well-being, and high performance.
In this way, companies strengthen their organizational culture, increase employee engagement, and consolidate their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
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