Using Open Plan Workstations in Orange County

Using Open Plan Workstations in Orange County

The Orange County Mentality

Think of innovative Orange County and California companies, and gaming firms, tech or financial start-ups like Acorn may come to mind. Add automotive companies to the list of innovators. Karma Automotive got its start in the OC and manufactures environmentally friendly vehicles.  No doubt, there’s a lot of talent in Southern California with entrepreneurs who find a unique need in the marketplace and then work hard to provide a solution and capture their niche in the marketplace. However, keeping daily operations humming along doesn’t just happen.  A well-designed office space is key along with the right furnishings, like those in open plan workstations. Open office floor plans and workstations have been known to have key benefits and play a direct role in a company’s success.

Open Plan Flexibility

Open office floor plans have become standard because workspace configurations are easy to manage. But don’t just set up the workstations in just any pattern. The most effective offices are arranged with thorough planning and space design strategies. Know how the team functions and relates with their different responsibilities. Then plan work areas accordingly.

Be creative. Why not put the administrative team in the center of the room instead of in a distant corner? This way, it’s clear that they set the tone for communicating with everyone.  Sales and marketing can be near the front door and the project managers, developers or creatives can be positioned in an area that’s quieter and focused. Setting up and taking down workstations is easy.

Flexibility isn’t just in the layout but also includes workstations with height-adjustable surfaces like the Hover Height Adjustable Table by DeskMakers. It also offers easy power distribution and cable management when the height changes.

Open Plan Approachability

Using open plan workstations can create a friendly, business casual environment. Open plan workstations allow for approachability since people aren’t cloistered behind solid walls. This makes personal communication and collaboration easier than having to knock on doors or send emails.  Focus time is important so chairs can be arranged around small tables in a break type area or meeting pods used so others aren’t distracted.

Open Plan Durability

Easy to assemble furniture is durable. Veneer surfaces and premium materials make for a clean look and performance that can withstand rugged work habits. All mechanisms including brackets are manufactured well for maximum use over many years.

Tips for Styling the Office Workspace in Orange County

Tips for Styling the Office Workspace in Orange County

Putting Together an Office Plan

Growing companies in Orange County should consider how the layout of an office reflects on the company’s brand. A sleek layout that’s efficient and clean can boost morale and productivity. Tech firms gaming start-ups in Irvine and real estate brands headquartered in the OC can budget wisely and create an office plan and space design that brings decision-makers and talent together.

The Executive Area

Collaboration is a key to an office functioning effectively and a good flow of communication starts with the executive team. High level strategy includes analyzing financial data, knowing changes in the marketplace and the talent needed to round out the existing team.  Having a place to discuss is critical. Executive office desks can lend themselves to an atmosphere where it’s easy to access the CEO. No one has to hide behind walls.  Consider the Verde Collection of desks by Cherryman. It can have a minimalist appeal while Cherryman’s Amber Desk design fits well for open offices, providing plenty of room for sharing ideas while keeping personal space defined.  An executive space doesn’t need layers of drywall to stand apart from everyone else. Style and use of space set the boundaries while inviting communication.

The Office Floor

Open plan cubicles are a good way to create boundaries while allowing a flow of information.  A solution like the Accelerate Workstation by Hon provides flexibility, a place to focus and the openness to share. The Crossroads Workstation by ODS combines a classic cubicle with today’s technology and includes room for personal and work filing and storage.  Cubicles are flexible to accommodate growth and change so companies aren’t locked in to physical walls or bulky desks and furniture. Clean lines create order and give a look of stability.  In a corporation with larger floor space, departments can have their own set and style of cubicles. In a smaller firm like a small business or a start-up, cubicles can function for a work area and modular furniture can allow for a specified meeting place.

Image Source: Global Lufton