Redesigning Your Office Space for 2012

Workstations for Collaboration & Flexibility

When it comes to office design, "collaboration" and "flexibility" are the watchywords of 2012. The traditional office space is undergoing its most dramatic change since it was shaped by the creation of the cubicle more than 40 years ago.

Collaborative Office Design

A team-based, collaborative environment challenges employees to work together for a wider variety of solutions to any problem. In a 1999 Harvard Study, PhD. Edward Hallowell states, "People begin to think in new and creative ways and mental activity is stimulated through collaboration."

Another office design study done in 2001 Offices That Work: Balancing Communication, Flexibility and Cost, says "The major reason for an office today is to bring people together: to socialize and share information; to inspire and inform each other; to provide guidance and feedback. Relatively little of the work of most office workers requires deep, individual concentration for hours at a time."

WIFI, Systems Furniture, Dirtt Walls

Technology allows for these advancements. The integration of wifi in office environments allows for a employees to leave the confinements of their desk and work on the same project.

Companies are putting in less permanent walled-enclosed offices. If they have a requirement for a level of privacy that enclosed offices provide, they can utilize modular wall systems such as DIRTT Environmental Solutions that can be reconfigured. Not only are modular wall systems convenient, but generally inexpensive and eco-friendly.

Systems Furniture are incorporated into different shapes that optimize the geometry of interaction. Flexible and adjustable furniture allows the employee to optimize her working space for the suited purpose. Systems furniture also allows for office expansion, due to the fact that they are 100% free standing and mobile.

Steelcase, Herman Miller and Teknion are among many of the leading manufacturers in systems furniture.

Workstation Flexibility

• Create a variety in workstations. While some may require private work areas, others may wish to work in a group. Simply pushing tables together will build teamwork.
• Utilize different types of seating, whether it be an ergonomic desk chair for computer work or a more casual lounge style.
• Lower the partitions. This keeps the element of privacy, but still gives the office a more open and airy feel. Employees will be able to communicate over the partitions instead of walking around them.