Department of Social and Health Services - Olympia
- BAR Group
- Apr 12, 2016
- 2 min read
Organization Summary
Washington State Department of Social Health Services (DSHS) is located in Olympia, WA. DSHS offers a wide variety of services for mental health, food assistance, health, housing assistance, and disability support. There mission is "transforming lives". They serve as a centralized hub for major social and health services in Washington State. We toured one floor of the building that has multiple teams who have implemented workplace strategies.
Feature of the Workplace
Modified cubicles to create a more open work environment
Lean management practices
Cafeteria on site
Collaborative working spaces
Furniture that supports flexible working spaces
Teleworking options
Bike area for promoting riding to work
Employee shower area
Brittany's Blurbs...
When comparing this space to Google, it’s not very impressive. But when comparing it to other state agencies it’s obviously a step in the right direction. It was evident that the employees were very satisfied with their new set-up as many people volunteered to show us their personal space. Each area was different and spoke to the individuality of each team. In the center, they painted a common wall with white board paint so each unit could utilize it. Included in this space was a bookshelf showcasing employees of the month. I felt that the morale of employees was up and people had been reinvigorated by the changing space. All in all, I could work in a space like this, especially if it was occupied by such nice coworkers!
Amanda's Aspect...
Unfortunately we didn't get any photos of this place! It was relatively nice and they are definitely trying, with baby steps, to create a more embracing atmosphere. They have these neat file cabinets that work as resting places, with a little library and rug. They de-cluttered the place and are trying to use less paper, which means less filing cabinets, and more open space! They are converting cubicles into shared tables/desk spaces that can be used as a standing or sitting desk. Most of the employees that work in the same department now have shared space. Their cubicle walls are taken down and they can all easily access each other by turning in their chair and having a discussion. The architects actually had a shared architectural table in the middle of their open desks, so they could collaborate on designs. Everyone seemed happy about the change and there were no open complaints. It seems that most people could get the privacy they need or the ability to work alongside someone as they wished.
Rachel's Ramblings....
DSHS is one of the largest state agencies in Washington state. It was interesting to see such a large agency participate in workplace strategies. Our team went to a specific division that has invested in OFM's pilot program. Currently they have invested their dollars into purchasing flexible furniture that can be utilized for differing purposes. In addition they have chosen to move cubicle walls down to create clustered working environments. Cubicles still exist, but teams are clustered together in clumps of 4-6. They use bright colors and kanban boards to bring life to the walls and work stations. Other areas outside of the pilot program division are still grey and austere. I hope this agency can continue to move the culture of collaboration and color into other areas!
