AWA - Transforming the world of work

The world of work is changing. The key to success lies in harnessing your DNA of work.

We are the leading global independent consultancy transforming the world of work. We use science, research and our depth of experience to deliver exceptional results for exceptional companies.

Since 1992, our founders have been intrigued by how science and research can transform the world of work. This early fascination spread to working with like-minded people and the birth of Advanced Workplace Associates, now known as AWA. From the very beginning the DNA of work has been the connection between us all.

We transform the world of work for the better. It’s in our DNA.

Testimonials

“Mintel has worked successfully with AWA for over a decade on several major projects. We chose them for their expertise and experience at the cutting edge of understanding workplaces. They lead the industry with well-crafted research to understand the dynamic workplace landscape and help solve the real-world issues of operating successfully in a changing world. Along with data and insights, they bring practical processes that involve everyone from grass root team members to the most senior executives, developing effective change to meet all parties’ goals. They have become trusted advisers around not only workplace matters but in behavioural change.”

Peter Haigh Chairman, Mintel

“We have worked with AWA for more than five years and value the collaborative partnership we have with them. They have supported the ongoing evolution of our workplace, providing deep insights and extensive expertise. With their help, we’ve been able to create a transformational space which supports our hybrid working approach and transforms our culture and ways of working to become more agile and innovative. This helps us recruit and retain the best talent, which supports our core purpose of funding research to save lives. None of this would have been possible without the help of AWA.”

Kerry Smith Chief People Officer, British Heart Foundation

“AWA has been a great resource of global data and research for us regarding agile, hybrid and the world of working. They are responsive, willing to question assumptions, and work as a partner to help us make good decisions.”

Neil Austin VP Real Estate Portfolio Management and Transaction Services, Omnicom Group

“Leading a major change management project in complex international organisation is challenging undertaking. I knew it would involve multiple stakeholders, take wide-ranging collaboration and that we would need some expert, confident experience to help steer and deliver it. AWA has provided that, not by steaming in and dictating how things should be based on their ideals, but by listening to us, learning, understanding and advising. I have enjoyed working closely with them on this project. I have felt supported, they have always been available to discuss challenges and options and have always responded promptly, constructively and positively with solutions and alternative ideas for consideration.”

Tom Crame Head of Global Workplace, Amnesty International

“We were really keen to understand how the learnings and behaviours of Covid enforced home working would affect the post-pandemic return of staff and in particular to our Sheffield campus as we have plans to restack and refurbish the office space. AWA’s detailed and in-depth engagement process allowed us to reach out to all levels of occupants and really understand staff perception on what will be needed to create a new working environment that would align with business requirements and where changes in behaviour, management style and space might be appropriate. Their insights also allowed us to create a blueprint of alternative space types that we’ve used to inform the repurposing of space across our nationwide estate.”

Steve Chapman Interim Head of Estates ICF Security, Estates and Information Directorate, Home Office
“AWA has been supporting Bupa for around five years as we have transitioned our business, firstly from office based to flexible working, and now to hybrid working. I have found their approach to both us as a business and the challenges we face, to be pragmatic and solution focussed; always willing to engage us in constructive debate and take time to understand our people and practices. Their consultant team are able to interact with our people at all levels and the service they provide feels personal and tailored to our needs. The diligence with which they explore our practices and provide us with insightful feedback is impressive, which is why we come back to them time and again. I have no hesitation in recommending AWA to any organisation, no matter how big, as they have demonstrated to us that they have the capability to meet any challenge.”
Neil Jones Director of Property, Bupa