WorkSafeBC

Microsoft Teams Hybrid Work Strategy

In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, WorkSafeBC’s executive leadership launched a major strategic initiative to embrace a hybrid work model. A major element of this project was to reimagine their facilities, providing technology-enabled spaces that would allow employees to collaborate seamlessly from both the office and home. Chroma was selected to lead the technology project management effort, overseeing the process from start to finish: needs assessment, planning, schedule management, budget oversight, vendor coordination, construction oversight, quality control, and final handoff to operations.

The initiative required Chroma to work closely with multiple internal departments—IT, unified communications, and facilities—while coordinating with an external AV contractor and equipment vendors. The project was designed to create a modern, agile workplace that could accelerate WorkSafeBC’s transition to hybrid operations.

WorkSafeBC’s existing audio-visual infrastructure struggled to meet the demands of a modern hybrid workforce. Very few of the organization’s meeting rooms were equipped with Microsoft Teams functionality, resulting in frustrating experiences for employees. With collaboration tools lacking, remote staff could feel disconnected, making teamwork and communication challenging. The pandemic exposed these gaps and accelerated the need for change.

One of the most significant challenges was aligning external vendors with internal stakeholders to manage the complex construction process. This required bridging the divide between IT systems and physical infrastructure, a delicate balancing act that required close collaboration between teams. Additionally, the rapid evolution of AV technology during these years meant Chroma had to keep WorkSafeBC informed of new developments and pivot quickly to incorporate the best solutions.

The project was further complicated by global supply chain disruptions, which impacted the availability of AV equipment.

Chroma facilitated design solutions that were practical, reliable, and intuitive—reducing the burden of ongoing IT support while making it easy for staff to adopt the new tools.

Chroma managed an annual budget of $500,000 to deliver a collection of Microsoft Teams-enabled spaces, including meeting rooms and specialized areas such as auditoriums, training rooms, collaboration spaces, and Microsoft Teams “Signature” meeting rooms. Each environment was designed to support various types of interactions, from large-scale presentations to small group meetings to creative collaboration.

Despite the diversity of these spaces, the design focused on creating a consistent and seamless user experience across all locations. Whether employees are in the office or working remotely, they can easily connect, collaborate, and participate in decision-making. The hybrid model now allows staff to work fluidly between home and the office with little friction—cultivating an inclusive work culture where every voice can be heard.

With the new infrastructure in place, WorkSafeBC has taken a significant step toward future-proofing its operations. The spaces Chroma helped create enable employees to collaborate more effectively, strengthening the organization’s ability to meet the challenges of a changing work environment.

Location

WorkSafeBC Offices Across BC

Project Team

WorkSafeBC

Completion Date

Ongoing