As a manager or CEO, a primary focus is to increase the efficiency and productivity of human resource. Hours are spent agonizing and strategizing on how to improve this efficiency- yet neglect a very simple principle – lighting.

Workplace lighting can significantly affect worker productivity. In fact, the overall feeling of being energized or lethargic, alert or drowsy depends upon the flick of a switch.

An interesting study was held by the American School of Interior Design which indicated that 68% of employees complained about poor lighting in their place of work. How is it that a company, wanting to extract the maximum efficiency of its human resource, overlook such a necessity which governs how people think, act and contribute to their work?

Scientific evidence suggests that ambient lighting has the ability to significantly alter the work rate and productivity of workers.

Dim Lighting Effects

Dim lighting is particularly good in break areas because it creates a sense of comfort, relaxation and helps employees break free from work stress. However, if dim lighting is installed in a primary work area, it will cause the workers to strain their eyes causing headaches and reduced vision.

Cool Lighting Effects

Cool lighting improves alertness, mood, and productivity. It lowers melatonin which in turn reduce fatigue. Hence, cool lighting is usually preferred in main office space areas where high alertness and brain stimulation are integral.  It turns out that cold lighting is more conducive to productivity. Source

Natural Lighting

Studies have shown that natural sunlight is the most conducive to a productive workplace. During the day, it is advisable to adjust the office furniture in a way that workers can benefit the most from natural lighting. Natural lighting ensures that the workers see and feel better and have lower levels of stress. However, as the day progresses, it is not possible to have the same intensity and amount of natural light throughout the work hours and for evening shifts, natural lights are but a dream. Lighting which resembles natural light is to be used to create the same atmosphere of creative and efficient work.

There are many ways to utilize natural light while simultaneously reducing energy consumption. Natural light harvesting sensors will dim applicable light sources, such as LED troffers or fixtures (connected to light harvesting sensor) to a certain light level. The sensor will increase or decrease light levels depending on the amount of natural light in a specific location.

Proper lighting can actually work wonders. It can lower your energy costs by as much as 80% and improve your workplace productivity by approximately 40%.