22/06/2022
NicheSolv - Workation and Vacation - an experiment in Organization Development
NicheSolv planned an integrated Workation and Vacation during Feb 2022 to bring together employees all over the country to interact and bond together for work, fun and relaxation. This was planned in 2 distinct stages, one following the other.
The Workation - a new word for "Work at a Vacation spot" was designed to be a workplace out in the jungles, amongst the wilderness, in the midst of pure nature, breathing fresh air all the time. We worked together as though we were all together in one office, but in an informal atmosphere with limited furniture like chairs and tables. Many of us sat down on the floor but worked at ease, comfortably. It was a new experience, to work in a place which is different yet exciting. Since we were all together, we could finish more work in less time. The Internet connection was patchy at times. Whenever the Net went down, we would break for tea, coffee or snacks. Working together in a single building helps break barriers, connects people and eliminates a lot of fear, anxiety and helplessness. When people see eye to eye, they are able to better understand each other. This reduces friction at work and there is more willingness to help each other.
The Vacation which followed the Workation was chosen to be a different spot, about 2 to 4 hours bus drive from the Workation spot. This was a hill station of sorts, in the mountains, amidst organized farming and plantation cultivation. We had a wonderful guide who explained the wonders of nature - the trees, the plants, the insects, the birds and the rich flora and fauna which we usually miss in the big cities. The Vacation gave an opportunity for people to showcase their hidden talents in fine arts, singing, dancing, drama, magic tricks and so on. As night fell, the bonfire would start and our team would let down their hair and relax. The local food and cuisine was tasty and we enjoyed the wonderful hospitality at the venue.
Overall, NicheSolv and its family enjoyed the well-planned Workation and Vacation - a very useful tool for Organization Development.