New workplace concepts

Changing forms of work, flexibility in terms of location and time, as well as the increasing variety of the proportion of tasks people do in study and teaching, research, service, administration, and interdisciplinary collaboration place new demands on the working environment, which is exemplified by the availability of a sufficient, diversified supply of suitable workspaces.

Our goals

Our goals:   

  • UniBE is developing its own concept, tentatively titled “BüroUNIversum,” based on Activity-Based Work (offering different options depending on the type of activity and mobility) and in accordance with cantonal guidelines, while taking into account university-specific circumstances (e.g., laboratory work, student assistants, guests, and research partners) 
  • Flexible access, both in terms of time and location, to activity-based workspaces, areas, rooms, and locations  
  • An accessible, transparent tool for reserving spaces and workspaces, locating them, and analyzing usage  
  • Workspaces support and promote modern forms of collaboration; Digital and hybrid work is supported
  • Common areas foster a sense of community; social interactions and exchanges are encouraged by the available spaces
  • The individuality and cultural backgrounds of employees are valued through a diverse range of workspace options
  • Health promotion is addressed through furniture layouts that encourage movement, spaces for relaxation and quiet, as well as ergonomic work equipment  

In 20 years

In 20 years:    

  • We will be able to choose from a flexible range of workspaces across multiple locations based on the diverse nature of our work, as well as our individual work styles and mobility preferences.  
  • We will use attractive spaces that reflect the university’s identity, are functionally furnished, and are designed to suit our activities.  
  • We will have a range of functional support facilities with a high quality of use, which will enhance the university’s appeal and support our diverse activities. These include communication areas, nursing rooms, parent-child rooms, catering facilities, etc. 
  • The furnishings will withstand flexible use and meet changing requirements. 
  • The new workplace concept will support future generations in their individual ways of working. 

„Arbeitsplätze für Menschen und für die Zukunft“ 

In the article, administrative director Markus Brönnimann explains the benefits of the "Arbeitsplätze für Menschen und für die Zukunft" initiative.

Townhall-Meeting zu „Neue Arbeitsplatzkonzepte“

At the town hall meeting on January 23, 2024, the FitforFuture program’s focus areas—“space shortage” and “new workplace concepts”—were discussed, and attendees were updated on the latest developments. The presentation explained the program’s objectives, methodology, and action plan. Questions from the audience were answered by Markus Brönnimann, administrative director; Stefan Rufer, head of the construction and spatial planning department; and Fabian Lüthi, team leader for management and strategy in the construction and spatial planning department.