Enhancing Productivity and Creativity: Applying Space Science to Improve the Workplace Environment on Earth and Preparing our Workforce for Life in Outer Space

Paper number

IAC-16,B5,2,12,x34515

Coauthor

Ms. Nancy C. Wolfson, Interstellar Travel Meetup, Webster University Worldwide, Washington University and Northern Arizona University, Outer Space Education Alliance L.L.P., United States

Coauthor

Prof. Edythe Weeks, Interstellar Travel Meetup, Webster University Worldwide, Washington University and Northern Arizona University, Outer Space Education Alliance L.L.P., United States

Year

2016

Abstract

In the 21st century, corporations understand that workplace strategies are changing due to advances in space technology. Those advances are showing us that living and working in outer space is closer to becoming a reality than previously thought.

In this paper we argue the need for actively making space science technology more accessible to corporations and their workforces. This proposal seeks to bring to the scientific community tangible examples of companies that have achieved success through alternative and more flexible workplace design and management styles. We believe that these improvements can be further enhanced by implementing outer space technology. The study of these improvements on Earth will serve as a testing ground for their implementation in outer space. We will examine the benefits to productivity, growth and revenue and how we can take current alternative workplaces examples to the next level, using space science technology, ergonomics and knowledge about human sensory science and utilize its integrated application to provide practical and effective alternative solutions to critical phenomena affecting many work environments and enhance workforce creativity on Earth.

This paper brings in studies indicating how a number of advances related to space systems offer a unique lens for inspiring cutting edge ideas, strategies and the application of these concepts aimed at heightening creativity. The insights discussed will utilize these synergies to assist employers in providing safer, more effective, productive and inspiring workplaces for employees at all levels. This includes enhancing workplace health, problem solving, creativity, stress reduction and productivity issues for management and how we can ground these strategies as we implement these ideas in the corporate world on earth, to help us prepare better for the workplace in outer space colonies.

Abstract document

IAC-16,B5,2,12,x34515.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-16,B5,2,12,x34515.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.