CNS: Enhancing an Existing Workspace to Support a Growing Team, with MiiBox Acoustic Pods

End Client: Community Network Services (CNS)
Design & Specification: Plann:d

Community Network Services (CNS) are a DP World Digital Trade Solutions business, supplying digital trade solutions to the ports and logistics sector since 1986. With products aimed at helping their customers and the ports and logistics communities, CNS make these business processes more efficient and profitable. Due to a growing team and business, CNS recognised the need for a workplace that could accommodate their expanding workforce while creating an environment where employees could thrive.

CNS themselves believed this must be orchestrated through a larger office, exploring the idea of a full relocation. However, with the guidance of Plann:d, expert office space planning consultants specialising in interior design, furniture specification and installation, further innovative ideas were explored to help save both cost and time.

The Design:

Plann:d assisted in demonstrating how the existing space could house more people, by in fact reducing the total number of desks. Although this appeared counter intuitive, it was proven to be a highly successful approach. When thinking about redesigning a workspace, it is often more valuable to focus on how the space is used, compared to its size. A multitude of elements were brought into play to help enhance this office space, including quiet spaces, focus areas, a cocoon snug and meeting areas designed for real conversations.

This is where our Acoustic Pods played a key role. With Plann:d leading the refurbishment, we were brought on board to help bring their vision to life through the supply and installation of our MiiBox range.

A variety of pod sizes were selected, including the Workpod, 2 Person, and 4 Person models, enabling the office to accommodate a wide range of activities and working styles. From collaborative discussions and confidential meetings to focused individual work, the space was transformed into a more flexible and functional environment. Our MiiBox Pods achieve a Class A acoustic rating, tested to the latest ISO 23351-1:2020 standard, providing exceptional speech privacy. This allows colleagues to hold sensitive conversations with confidence or retreat to a quiet, distraction-free space for concentrated work.

The Results:

Featuring a sleek black exterior and oak slatted side panels, these pods contribute to a professional and sophisticated aesthetic that reflects the important work carried out by CNS. Seamlessly integrated into the office design, the MiiBox Pods complement the wider workspace, with the blue sofa upholstery carefully selected to harmonise with the existing colour palette and interior finishes.

Overall, due to the hard work of Plann:d, this project was proven to be highly successful in improving the CNS workspace, creating a workplace employees genuinely want to visit, rather than feel they have to. “We now have days where people are clambering for desks because so many people want to come into the office, which is a complete turnaround from before.” – Pip, CNS

This project highlights the importance of adapting your current workspace, and demonstrated how not all redesigns need to cost a large sum; significant improvements can be achieved through innovative thinking and a considered budget. This is why Workagile hold great pride in offering affordable product ranges, to help bring these ideas to life and improve your working environment in a realistic manner.