Planning an office may seem like a relatively simple task. However, there are an array of issues for managers to bear in mind, and if they make mistakes, they may find themselves subject to furniture at work complaints.
Luckily for those who are tasked with setting up new workspaces or rearranging existing ones, there is plenty of advice out there. By taking advantage of the wealth of information on offer in cyberspace, bosses can help ensure they do not suffer furniture at work problems and other undesirable complications.
Writing on the Hindu Business Line recently, Sahil Verma offered his insights into office design. Mr Verma, who is chief operating officer at Regus, India, stated: “There’s a lot to think about when you lease and equip an office – not just budget, but energy efficiency, fire regulations, lighting, maintenance, cleaning and security. All these aspects consume time, money and energy, and they’re especially onerous for start-ups and smaller companies.”
He added: “Businesses should also think about how their workspace affects productivity, staff morale and image. The perfect match in terms of budget and facilities may have the wrong vibe or address for staff and customers.”
According to the expert, firms are becoming increasingly aware that offices influence performance. When it comes to innovative working spaces, Silicon Valley companies are leading the way. These hi-tech organisations are including novel design elements, such as bowling alleys, games rooms and picnic areas, he added.
One issue for bosses to think about when they are planning their offices is noise. Mr Verma cited research that suggests nearly six in ten workers feel background noise causes a ‘major deterioration’ in their ability to concentrate. He added that open-plan working environments are “notorious for this”, but pointed out that sound-absorbing furniture and carpeting can be used to reduce sound levels.
Colour is another design element to consider. On this topic, Mr Verma remarked: “Cool greens and blues are meant to induce calm and clarity, and are good for meeting spaces. Warm colours promote creativity.”
Meanwhile, despite the trend towards more outlandish designs, it can pay off to be practical when planning offices. The expert stated: “Don’t be cool for the sake of it: The design of a workplace has to fit a business’s image, brand and staff. More important than giant slides may be an address that people deem professional and a location that customers and staff can easily get to.”
He also advised managers to “be green”. By using energy efficient working spaces and furniture, firms can cut their carbon footprints. Also, it may pay off for bosses to consider flexible working options such as enabling staff members to operate closer to home.
By adopting a considered approach to office design, companies can help ensure they create productive spaces that people feel comfortable working in. In addition, businesses can minimise the risk that they will suffer furniture at work difficulties.
As well as seeking advice and information online, managers can look for top-quality desks, chairs and other items in cyberspace.
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