Did you know office and admin support jobs make up 16% of the American workforce? That’s not including other workers who clock in at an office every day. So, setting up an office is no easy task, and there are several things to consider.
This guide explains the considerations to make when setting up an office.
Who Will Be Using the Office?
Setting up an office is more complicated than buying stock supplies for any kind of small business office. Among the considerations to keep in mind are layout/floor plans, number of rooms, company culture, demographics, the size of the office, technology needs, and more. As offices are the places people may spend the majority of their day, the environment should be comfortable.
Offices should have private workspaces as well as areas for social interaction, such as a breakroom. Consider what will help productivity as well as the happiness of workers.
Some offices are moving toward unconventional spaces as work becomes easier to perform remotely or away from a desk.
Efficient Layouts
There are a few different popular floor plan options used in offices that have their pros and cons.
An open floor plan is optimal for large spaces with little to no barriers. A typical setup is a set of desks or tables with chairs stationed in the middle or around the perimeter of the room. This situation is suitable for workplaces that encourage and thrive on collaboration, but it could also inhibit personal place/storage and privacy.
A closed floor plan uses cubicles or similar dividers in a large room so every employee can work at a separate desk or station. This option is popular because it offers the most privacy and helps people stay on task. It, however, takes up a lot of otherwise useable room and inhibits collaboration.
A modular floor plan is among the most popular designs in modern workplaces. It is a compromise between an open and closed floor plan. Modular workstations are cost-effective and use space most effectively.
What Technology and Equipment Is Needed?
Nearly every workspace relies on laptops or desktops and phone services for business. The equipment should support the technology used by employees. Determine whether or not any specialized equipment is necessary.
Think about the day-to-day demands of office employees as well. Is there a conference room? How many of these products do you need?
Office Ergonomics
Proper office ergonomics isn’t just about being comfortable. Poor ergonomic designs lead to stress injuries, fatigue, eye strain, headaches, and other health issues. The easiest place to start with improving office ergonomics is desk chairs.
Desk chairs are not quite one-size-fits-all. A desk chair should allow someone to sit with their knees bent and with their arms at their sides at 90-degree angles. The depth and height of the seat should also be adjustable.
Accessibility
Under Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, workplace features (such as the layout or necessary tools or equipment) must be accessible for people with disabilities. For example, paths to different places in the office should be wide enough for someone using a mobility aid to pass through. Be aware of accommodations that aren’t as obvious as well.
Setting Up an Office Made Simple
As you can see, there are many factors to consider when setting up an office, like demographics, layout, technology/equipment demands, ergonomics, and accessibility. Plan your office with these factors in mind for a happy and healthy workspace.
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