Introducing: Design Like A J.E.D.I
Lab Design News is excited to announce an additional monthly column you can access exclusively on our site. Over the next 12 months, Ken Mohr, President of HERA, and Jinhee Lee, AIA, NCARB, CDT, will present a monthly column that delves into the perspectives of lab directors and managers, enriched by insights from their surveys to explore the ins and outs of inclusive design in Design Like A J.E.D.I.
One of the most significant evolutions in the forensic lab industry is the increasing representation of women in roles ranging from forensic scientists to medical examiners. This shift reflects broader societal changes and demands a re-evaluation of laboratory space design. In interviews with lab directors, Jinhee will focus on how these demographic changes influence the retrofit of existing lab spaces.
The column will highlight the importance of creating inclusive environments catering to female staff's needs. Key considerations will include:
Ergonomics and Safety: Ensuring that lab equipment and workstations are designed with a diverse user base in mind.
Collaboration Spaces: Designing communal areas that foster teamwork and mentorship, essential for integrating new professionals into the field.
Privacy and Well-Being: Providing spaces that offer comfort and privacy, particularly in sensitive areas such as medical examinations.
By exploring these themes, Jinhee aims to showcase how thoughtful design can enhance the work experience for women in forensics and promote a culture of inclusivity.
Simultaneously, Ken will focus on the broader spectrum of laboratory design, particularly within analytical and clinical settings. His interviews with lab managers will shed light on how inclusivity is a design principle and a management philosophy.
Key topics of interest will include:
Diverse Hiring Practices: Understanding how lab managers prioritize inclusivity in their hiring processes and create diverse teams that reflect their communities.
Flexible Lab Spaces: Exploring how adaptable designs can accommodate various workflows and promote collaboration across different specialities.
Training and Development: Assessing how lab managers provide ongoing training emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion within their teams.
Over the coming months, Jinhee and Ken’s column will weave together these narratives, showcasing the intersection of lab design and inclusivity in our newest instalment: Design Like A J.E.D.I.
