When Messages Stop Getting Through

With over 9,000 team members spread across 168 locations, Officeworks faced a growing communication gap. Traditional channels like email were only reaching about 20% of the team, and their existing tools weren’t gaining traction, especially among deskless workers.

This disconnect was more than an operational hiccup. It made it harder to support and include the very people who made the business tick, especially during the unpredictable days of 2020. The need for change became urgent.

Officeworks Didn’t Need More Tools. They Needed One That Worked

That’s when Officeworks partnered with Enablo to find a better way forward. From the start, the goal wasn’t just to roll out a new platform—it was to create a shared space where everyone could feel seen, heard, and involved.

Through a two-day Blueprint Sprint, Enablo helped shape the business case, bringing clarity and momentum to the internal planning. From there, both teams worked side-by-side to deliver a rollout that reflected the energy and values already alive at Officeworks.

By the time the internal launch hit the calendar, the tech that was ready, and so were the people.

From Day One, It Felt Different

At the Officeworks Leadership Forum, 100 senior leaders got their first hands-on experience with the new platform. The response was instant. Leaders quickly saw the potential to engage, share, and communicate in real time—something they’d never had at scale.

Within days, the platform was buzzing. During a new store opening in Warana, Queensland, Sarah Hunter, Managing Director at Officeworks, and other leaders streamed live to showcase the event, chat with team members, and bring the excitement to the whole organisation.

Sarah shared why this mattered: “Prior to [the new platform], we were only able to reach about 20% of our team members directly. We relied on one-way channels to distribute key information to our team. 

Our team has told us they want more of an opportunity for two-way conversation and for everyone to be included, and we want places where our team can share ideas and recognise and celebrate each other and their achievements in real-time. It is so exciting that finally, no matter what your role is or where you are located, we can communicate and connect!”

Now, Everyone’s in the Room

The national rollout followed soon after, opening up the platform to every Officeworks team member—across support offices, fulfillment centres, and stores.

For the first time, everyone could join the annual Year Beginning Meeting, live or on replay. It was a moment of cultural shift: no more one-way updates. Now, it was about participation.

Alex Staley, General Manager Corporate Affairs, explained the importance of that shift: “It’s really exciting to be able to bring our Annual Conference to life using a tool like this. For the first time ever, all team members have the opportunity to attend in real time or watch back later, no matter where they are located.”

What Made It Stick

Several things made this launch successful. It was inclusive by design: mobile-friendly and accessible across every part of the business, even for those without a desk. It built on existing cultural strengths instead of trying to change them. And most importantly, it started with leadership, creating momentum from the top down.

The goal wasn’t to introduce new tech for tech’s sake. It was about making it easier for people to feel connected, informed, and proud of the work they do—and the teams they’re part of.

Want to Connect Everyone—Not Just the Few?

If you’re ready to make the leap from fragmented communication to a truly connected workforce, let’s talk. We’re here to help your team thrive, wherever they are.