For many business owners, getting their employees to collaborate with each other more often is at the top of their to-do list. Given the increasingly specialized nature of many positions, it’s of particular importance to ensure that everyone on your team stays on the same page. Unfortunately, that’s easier said than done. And creating an office collaboration space that actually improves employee communication can be quite challenging. That’s where we come in. Below, we’ll list everything you need to design a workplace that brings your team together:
Real Estate
It may sound painfully obvious, but if you want to designate a certain area, room, or set of rooms as a collaboration center, you need to have the space to do so. There are plenty of ways to get the most from a small office, but it’s unwise to attempt to use space you don’t have.
Flexible Office Fixtures
Regardless of the size of your office, business owners should look for flexible design solutions that fulfill multiple purposes. That way, you don’t end up spending money furnishing a room you only use rarely. Desks, chairs, tables, and furniture that are retractable or that can be moved easily are a must for modern offices. Furthermore, temporary fixtures like modular walls can help you play with space in creative ways and allow you to change your layout to promote collaboration.
Tech Solutions
Is a whiteboard still a fantastic tool for contemporary workplaces? Of course it is! Nevertheless, it’s naive to think you can create a fully optimized collaboration area without basic tech amenities such as outlets, chargers, and wireless internet. Additionally, progressive businesses may incorporate “community” devices like tablets that any employee can use on an as-needed basis.
Privacy
Strange as it may sound, if you want your team to work together, you also need to give them plenty of privacy. Forced collaboration may even be worse than no collaboration at all. At the end of the day, your team members should feel comfortable in their environment, and a lack of privacy will likely contribute to unease and discontent.
Snacks
A well-stocked office pantry or kitchen can act as a powerful motivator for employees working long hours. You don’t want your team members operating on an empty stomach, after all!
Industry Resources
A solid resource book is worth its weight in gold. Businesses that make use of a large number of books (like law firms, for instance) may also want to dedicate plenty of space to house them. In addition, industry-specific style guides and how-to pamphlets may offer your team members with definitive answers when the internet fails them.
People
Hiring the right personnel is critical to cultivating a productive and happy office. The good news is, a well-designed and furnished office will allow them to perform at their very best!
Final Thoughts
Striking the right balance to encourage collaboration in your workplace is a difficult task. Thankfully, you don’t have to take on this project alone. Contact the Key Interiors team today for office design assistance! Or, for more information on whether an open office layout will work for your situation, download our free eBook here: {{cta(‘6e7c4d88-eb76-4ed9-a6e1-b7c61d98ca99′,’justifycenter’)}}
