A comfortable and functional office space is not always easy to create for employees. It would be easy if everyone could have a bigger desk, but that would reduce available space or could even create the expense and hassle of looking for a bigger space. You will need to plan how the layout will work to maximize the space and comfort for employees.
There are many ways a desk can be more comfortable for an employee. The first rule in office remodeling is to consider ergonomics. It is important to make sure that desks are the right height, size (reasonably so) and width. It is a good idea to provide chairs that are adjustable, given possible turnover in job positions. And you need to make sure that workstations allow employees to work at their best.
Create divisions for better collaboration
This may seem almost contradictory, given that an open plan office seems to make everyone on the entire floor at one with each other, but there is research to back up this practice.
Research conducted by the University of Sydney found that an open plan office can actually make the workers feel like there is no sense of privacy. People feel that everyone is listening in on every conversation. This can prevent co-workers from having collaborative conversations, as it can seem like they are talking to everyone in the office.
This is where isolator devices can come in. These allow workers the privacy in their thoughts that they may not otherwise find in their surroundings.
During office remodeling, make sure that the office has some kind of dividers. It does not matter if it is a simple cubicle divider or a half-open wall. If it gives some kind of privacy instead of creating a studio-type office, it may help.
Smart office, smart functions
Collaboration, especially in creative industries, is sometimes a must to ensure productivity at work. This means you need to create a layout that is conducive for collaborating and for team meetings, but at the same time respects other people’s privacy and work habits.
For instance, a company that has both a creative department and an accounts department would probably need them in two separate working areas. One department needs the privacy and professional atmosphere, especially when meeting with clients or talking to them on the phone, while the other department needs a more open plan to enable collective discussion and help get the creative juices flowing.
Office remodeling needs to be planned and laid out smartly, but at the same time must be flexible, to ensure streamlined and productive workflow without causing friction with other departments.
Greg Nelson
Greg Nelson is the owner of Nelson Construction & Renovations Inc. He is a Florida State Certified Building Contractor, creating artistry in all areas of design and construction projects. He is a musician, and artist. A husband and father, Greg appreciates all the wonderful elements of family life.
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