The specifics of any office environment are critical to its overall functionality. Without the right dynamic and setup, your team won’t be able to function as they should, processes will be hindered, and overall productivity will be low in general. And if you have never had a functional office space, you won’t have any data to backtrack to an office remodel to determine that fault lies in the environment.
So, if you are searching for ways to boost productivity, rearranging the office space might do the trick. And because research shows that the right office environment can benefit your team in various ways, from enhanced motivation levels to boosted health and everything in between, there’s no downside to investing in the worthwhile project. Although, when it comes to getting the task done, you might not be too sure where to start or what exactly makes an office environment functional. These simple tips will help guide you along the way.
Add Shelving And Storage
If an employee’s office space is riddled with clutter due to a lack of storage space, functioning will be challenging. What’s more, lack of organization can hinder performance, as certain project elements can easily be misplaced. The best fix is to invest in Intermetro shelving. If each office space has enough storage, and there is enough storage throughout your offices, clutter won’t be a problem anymore. Employees will be able to organize their individual spaces, which will automatically enhance your office environment’s functionality.
Ensure Everyone Has Enough Space
While shelving and additional storage can mend a clutter problem, you must also ensure that each employee has enough space to work in. If your office cubicles are cramped and employees are working on top of each other, productivity will be low, and frustration levels will be high. Instead of attempting to squash everyone into a too-small space, you should re-evaluate the office layout. In some cases, you might need to consider a larger premise, but a simple layout fix is all you will need to consider in other cases. Placing cubicles in a different way might allow for each employee to have enough space to function properly. The most practical layouts include placing desks that face one another, investing in corner desks, and creating a square workspace where each desk meets the other.
Invest In Quality Lighting
Lighting is an often overlooked element that can have a massive impact on productivity. The ideal working space should have sufficient natural lighting, while additional fluorescent lighting is also required. Office spaces never have enough natural lighting as a general standard. If you use cheap bulbs in the office that shine a yellow-ish light, your employees’ eyesight will be negatively affected. Instead, invest in quality lighting and ensure you have a lighting plan that considered every area of the entire office.
Updated Office Equipment
It might initially seem like a massive extra cost, although updating the office equipment can benefit productivity substantially. If your employees are spending hours battling with an outdated printer, not much else will get done. And if you can’t afford the update, you should consider renting equipment instead. This option is affordable, and you won’t have to worry about maintenance and repairs either, as these costs are generally included in the rental fee.
Updating The Furnishings
Office furniture can be pretty pricey. However, opting for the cheapest furnishings can hinder productivity as chairs that don’t support posture will have your employees complaining about back and neck pain. On the other hand, if you invest in posture-supporting chairs and spacious desks, your employees will be comfortable and supportive enough to perform at their best. Even though it will be a cost to replace the furnishings, you should consider selling your current furnishings, along with outdated equipment and any other extras you have in your office that are taking up space.
There are tons of benefits associated with creating the ideal work environment. Without clutter and cramped working spaces, your employees will function at their best. Furthermore, once you have perfected the layout and updated various elements, you must also consider clean air solutions, provide clean water, and ensure there is a collaboration space and relaxation or break space. It is also a fantastic idea to add homey touches to the office once you have everything else sorted, such as welcoming pot plants, simplistic wall art, and comfortable seating in specific office areas. The more welcoming and comfortable your overall office design is, the happier your employees will be. In addition, office cleaning is also a crucial consideration that will benefit the environment and your business.
