Optimizely Dhaka: A hi-tech wonderland that redefines workplace culture

Imagine stepping into an office that feels like a blend of a modern art gallery, a tech incubator, and a cosy home. Welcome to Optimizely's state-of-the-art office in Dhaka, a space that's as intricate as a mural and as dynamic as the city itself. This isn't just an office; it's a canvas that narrates Optimizely's journey from its inception to its current glory.

"In one word, incredible!" exclaims Zulfikar Rahman, ACCA, Director of Finance for APAC and the Middle East at Optimizely. The launch saw almost 200 current and some former employees flood the office, exploring its nooks and crannies. "This is the first time we opened our doors post-pandemic... our office literally went viral on social media," Rahman adds, emphasising the meticulous planning that went into creating this masterpiece.

With 16,606 sq ft of space, the office is a marvel of modern architecture. "We wanted to create a fine balance between fun and functionality," Rahman explains. The office boasts separate pods for meetings and an open space workplace that fosters collaboration. "We built 9 meeting rooms. 5 out of these can be merged into larger rooms, serving larger teams as and when needed," he adds.

One of the most eye-catching features is the intricate murals that narrate Optimizely's journey. "We took major inspiration from our history, which you'll see reflected on our mural wall, which we call our journey-wall," Rahman shares. The murals are not just decorative; they are storytelling elements that encapsulate the company's evolution.

The office is replete with amenities that cater to the diverse needs of its employees. From an aesthetic pantry, with free lunch where employees can unwind to a hi-tech and colourful recreation room to free transport, the office offers it all. "We have 6 sleeping pods, a shower and accessible toilet, a maternity room, prayer space, and even a Zen Garden," Rahman lists, emphasising the thoughtfulness that went into planning each square foot.

"I don't think there's a certain checklist to make a workplace the best. It's the culture that drives the whole employee's experience," Rahman opines. The office ticks all the boxes when it comes to fostering a culture that puts employees first. "We tried to keep that at the back of our heads when planning the space," he adds.

Optimizely's Dhaka office is not just a workspace; it's a statement, a vision, and most importantly, a benchmark for what modern offices should aspire to be. "We wanted this space to be an inspiration for other companies and offices for the next 5 or 10 years," Rahman concludes.

So, the next time you hear about a 'cool office,' know that Optimizely Dhaka has set the bar incredibly high, not just in terms of design but also in how it values its most important asset—its people.