New trends, workplace productivity and sustainability to be discussed at industry seminar in Dubai

Taking place as part of the Middle East's biggest office showcase, The Office Exhibition, from 3-5 March at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Office Talks has attracted international and regional speakers who will share their knowledge on a wide range of topics with exhibitors and visitors at the show.

Sinead Bridgett, Exhibition Director at dmg world media, organisers of The Office Exhibition said the two day seminar, to be staged from 3-4 March, will address hot topics such as the relationship between workplace health and productivity, and the benefits of facilities management consultancy when developing an office concept.

Mick Dalton, General Manager of Marafeq FM will give an overview of added-value services that can be delivered by leading FM companies in the region on the opening day of the seminar.

Dalton said, "Offices in the UAE are very basic. A huge range of services can be provided by best practice FM companies, beyond the usual building requirements like cleaning and maintenance. These added-value services might include on-site massages, shoe-shining at your desk, sandwich delivery services via web portals, or assisting with dinner appointments - services that people can do for you, and help to maintain a happy, healthy and productive workforce."

Dalton said his presentation would benefit property mangers and FM managers running offices, building owners developing offices, property developers, and architects creating an office concept.

"People developing offices need to think about what tenants want, how to maximise an office space and how to effectively run offices, and in turn, how to help the people who work in offices to become more productive," Dalton continued.

Keri Luly, Sustainability Program Manager at Allsteel will discuss the benefits of sustainability and a healthy workplace environment on the second day of the seminar.

"Sustainability is more than the outdoor environment, it can have a very positive impact on the places where we work," said Luly. "Office furnishings can affect indoor air quality and employee health, and material choices also impact the office environment. Smart employers and designers are using sustainability to attract and retain a talented workforce and create the workplace of the future."

Sinead Bridgett said, "The office environment is constantly evolving. Office Talks, new to the exhibition in 2009, will provide a forum for industry experts to discuss the latest high-end office designs and solutions, and how businesses can successfully adapt to today's office environment. We have attracted some very experienced international speakers who will bring a wealth of experience to the seminar. In addition to discussing new trends, they will educate businesses and individuals about ways to reduce costs, while increasing efficiency and productivity, crucial in the current global economic climate."