The Workplace Event Agenda 2026

Workplaces have never stood still. Over the past few decades, Softcat have evolved from uniform, one‑size‑fits‑all workspaces into dynamic Destination Offices shaped by technology, global reach, changing demographics, and a deeper understanding of human needs. Yet as Softcat champions diversity in its people, the spaces around them can often lag behind, reflecting assumptions about how individuals think, work, and belong.

In this talk, we explore why that gap matters and how working with Softcat inspired Claremont to rethink the very foundations of workplace design. As Softcat continues to build a culture where people feel valued, supported, and able to thrive, the physical environment must be held to the same standard. That belief led us to apply DIBE360 – our pioneering audit tool evaluating how effectively a workplace supports Diversity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Equity together.

We’ll share the journey behind DIBE360: the research that shaped its application, the principles guiding decisions, and the criteria enabling us to measure inclusion meaningfully. You’ll hear how Softcat’s teams used the tool to uncover blind spots, inform evidence‑based design choices, and create environments elevating everyday experiences for colleagues, not just in theory, but in lived reality across offices and varied working patterns.

This session will challenge assumptions, spark new thinking, and show how Claremont and Softcat use intentional design to build workplaces where people truly belong. It’s not about better spaces; it’s about better outcomes for colleagues and culture alike.