For many, the paperless office is no more than a matter of convenience, but for Roche it is a business critical issue. When three branches of the Swedish operation were moving together, it was natural to move to an activity-based environment. But there was a concern among employees that was taken seriously.

Arvid Tydéns allé 7
Solna
Furnishing, furniture delivery, coordination & assembly
6470 sqm, activity-based office for about 200 employees on 4 floors.

Background

Roche is the world's third largest pharmaceutical company with over 90 000 employees in 150 countries. The move to a new office would bring together three business lines in one place and there was a stated aim to make the organization paperless. This was simply deemed safer as many patents and confidential documents are handled and could be better protected in a fully digital environment.

Challenge

The biggest change was not the geographical move, but the fact that more than 200 staff would now be working in an activity-based office. While most staff were positive about the change, there were also those who were concerned. The concerns were taken seriously and the move was planned for two years, with preparations for the new way of working starting 1.5 years in advance.

- We had a close cooperation where we felt involved, well informed and completely safe. We are very satisfied with our cooperation with Senab.

Elin Holmgren, HR Roche

The final result

The change journey was based on the employees' need for a pleasant and harmonious environment. They started by informing all employees about what the activity-based approach would entail. Partly in the form of inspirational lectures and partly through study visits to get to know the new way of working better. Employee surveys were sent out and an analysis of workplace occupancy was carried out.

The architect then zoned the open-plan office for low-, medium- and high-focus work. The division indicated how quiet the surroundings should be.

The idea of sustainability was also present throughout, which was important for Roche.

Senab provided support throughout the change journey. We became their knowledge partners and product specialists, helping the client to put products out to tender. We went to the market with tender documents to offer the client the best possible price, all in consultation with the architect. And to stay on budget throughout the project. Senab both delivered and assembled the furniture and is still a partner of Roche today.