Benefits of Collaborative Workspaces
The benefits of collaborative workspaces are found in offices that are designed well and provide an efficient flow of information and open communication conducive to promoting camaraderie and relationships. A “flat” organization can maximize collaborative spaces in different ways than companies that are run top-down with a focus on individual performance.
Open office layouts are usually the only ones thought of as collaborative. A 2011 article from Harvard Business Review, Inventing the Collaborative Workspace, states that most buildings are suited for individual work with cubicles and private offices. But efficient communication can be built into many layouts. Read on to discover how to set up collaborative spaces and their benefits.
Completing Tasks
Where work tasks are carried out are natural places for collaborative workspaces. Tech companies have been known to drive the collaborative work space approach. Creative firms like ad agencies and production companies require brainstorming and group effort around campaigns and TV or film development. Open bench seating is an excellent solution with options like Friant’s Verity Open Plan Benching that gives a modern, professional and orderly appearance to office spaces. Want to promote movement and creative collaboration? The G Series Desk Lounge by Scale 1:1 is flexible for many office needs.
What if your office is more traditional or requires individual attention to projects? It’s still possible to set a tone for collaboration and open communication using appropriate desking and dividers. A range of cubicles are available that don’t create a generic walled look. The EO workstation by Global allows for personal boundaries and openness. Modular Walls by Open Plan Systems is another way to have personal space without solid walls.
Sharing Ideas
Providing brainstorming and discussion is another one of the benefits of collaborative workspaces. Even companies with brick walls and doors between desks can promote sharing. A common room or large open space can be turned into a comfortable lounge. The Serafina Modular lounge offers professional seating solution to common office areas while sharing ideas in a flexible lounge system is the concept behind Share by Stylex.
In many cases, comfortable seating, a white board along with some beverages gets discussion flowing.
Solving Problems
A team that brings multiple perspectives to a problem can reduce individual burdens and provide lasting solutions. Not only can clients benefit, but internal needs such as deciding on new product launches can be handled effectively. Bringing people together isn’t always easy so make sure to set up the physical environment to promote problem solving. Gathering around a conference table is the norm but a smaller, modular approach like the Dewey Collection can be great for presenting a topic and then inviting small groups to break it down.
Building Relationships
Everyone needs to contribute their skills and ideas to make an office function at its peak. Since people have up and down days, a team approach can provide support. A company that’s aiming for collaboration at work can go far by building healthy relationships. Clearly defining goals and tasks in a community based on problem solving can lay the foundation for a satisfying work experience. Challenging days are unavoidable. But when the office layout is designed to promote discussion and collaboration then challenges can be overcome.
Enjoy the Benefits of Collaborative Workspaces
An office space is more than desks and chairs. If you are interested in designing your office to help you reap the benefits of collaborative workspaces, please don’t hesitate to ask us for help. Our office furniture experts are here to guide you and help you every step of the way.
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