#Japan #Tokyo #NTT Facilities #FL@T #collaborative space

NTT Facilities Unveils New Collaborative Space FL@T™

NTT Facilities Inc., headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, has recently completed the renovation of its headquarters, inaugurating the innovative collaborative space known as FL@T™ on July 24. This new space is designed to foster collaboration and communication, featuring various rooms tailored for different activities. Since its pre-opening in July 2024, FL@T™ is expected to host over 300 events in a ten-month span, including seminars and cross-departmental meetings, thereby revitalizing face-to-face interactions that have diminished due to remote work practices.

In the course of modernizing its office space, NTT Facilities also optimized its operational efficiency by reducing its office area by 47%. This downsizing has resulted in cost savings of over 200 million yen annually in rent and utilities, while promoting employee health and enhancing intellectual productivity. Utilizing NEBs (Non-Energy Benefits) metrics, the positive impacts of these upgrades have been quantified to yield benefits exceeding 40 million yen per year. Furthermore, an engagement survey revealed improvements in employee satisfaction regarding their work environment, with scores for effective working conditions and collaboration increasing significantly.

One of the key features of FL@T™ is the environment it creates for co-creation. As remote work has become increasingly prevalent since the COVID-19 pandemic, the dynamics of collaboration have transformed. Recognizing this shift, NTT Facilities redefined its workspace to cater to emerging needs, establishing FL@T™ as a versatile platform for innovation and interaction among employees and external collaborators. The space is built around nine unique co-creation scenarios tailored to different project phases and characteristics, thus providing an ideal platform for diverse activities ranging from brainstorming sessions to formal reviews.

A Destination for Diverse Activities and Collaboration

The heart of FL@T™ is the Work Lounge, which has played host to more than 300 events, fostering in-person communication that has waned due to the increase in virtual meetings. A variety of collaborative projects have emerged, including design workshops, partnership presentations, and cross-company gathering sessions, showcasing the rich potential of interdisciplinary collaboration.

Additionally, FL@T™ serves as a testing ground for new working methodologies leveraging ICT and AI technologies. In collaboration with NTT Docomo Business Inc., FL@T™ incorporates advanced communication tools such as the OPEN HUB Window, which connects remote offices in real-time for an immersive collaboration experience. It also features AI brainstorming tools that guide discussions and enhance both the quality and quantity of ideas generated in meetings. For instance, workshops held in conjunction with the OPEN HUB Window enable seamless conversations with remote teams while ensuring engagement is active and productive.

Future Developments and Invitation to Explore

Looking ahead, NTT Facilities aims to continue fostering collaboration and co-creation with diverse stakeholders through the establishment of FL@T™ and the broader renovation of its offices. The focus will be on demonstrating innovative working practices utilizing AI and ICT tools, improving energy efficiency through machine-learning-based temperature monitoring, and showcasing these insights to drive future workplace solutions. This includes flexibility in space design for hybrid work environments and using data visualization for further improvements in functionality.

FL@T™ aims to be a hub for creativity, allowing partners to build trust and share valuable insights. Organizations interested in experiencing this collaborative space and observing real-time applications and success stories are encouraged to schedule a visit through a reservation system.

For those interested in exploring our office, please fill out the reservation form on our website.

Notes

1. FL@T™ is a trademark registered or pending registration with NTT Facilities Inc.
2. NEBs refer to Non-Energy Benefits associated with improvements in energy efficiency, including enhanced intellectual productivity, health promotion, BCP performance improvement, and reduced maintenance costs.

The redesign of their headquarters at NTT Facilities exemplifies the future of workspaces, merging functionality with fostering community, productivity, and innovation.