What to know before pulling the trigger on new furniture

Buying office furniture is a rite of passage for every business owner, but it is a decision that should be handled with care. It’s not like buying new shoes; office furniture should be long lasting and efficient. For most, that means comfortable, durable and visually appealing. So before you pull the trigger on new furniture, be sure to understand the following to make sure you’re making a smart investment.

1. Space plan - When shopping for new furniture, first figure out if it will work in your office. Most furniture vendors will provide a space plan or designer to help map out the layout that will make the most sense for your business. This space plan will give you the right tools for installing the furniture in the right location as well.
2. Warranty - Furniture is a big investment and your purchase should be protected. Make sure that your new furniture comes with at least a one-year warranty depending on the brand. That way, if anything is damaged or is in need of a repair, it will be covered.
3. Lifespan - Some furniture lines are designed to last longer than others. Keep that in mind as you make the final decision. If your lease term is for five years, find furniture that will last the duration of the lease. If you are looking for a temporary solution, then at least you will get what you pay for.
4. Delivery - The cost of delivering the furniture is definitely something to keep in mind and have knowledge of up front. If you buy inexpensive furniture, but the delivery costs a fortune, then that strategy might not be the best option. Factor in the cost of getting the furniture to your office space before making any final decisions.
5. Budget - For small businesses, budget is the name of the game. Before setting a budget, be educated on the cost of furniture. Then create a list of needs versus wants. This will ensure that the budget is maximized to the fullest extent and that smart choices are made.

Navigating the world of office furniture can be complicated, which is why Rightsize has a team of professionals lined up to help you make informed decisions. Please contact us for more information and one of our experts will point you in the right direction.

About Rightsize:

Rightsize Facility Performance, headquartered in Chicago, IL, is a nationwide office interiors and facilities services firm serving corporate clients in transition. Founded in 2004, Rightsize employs an industry leading “Design/Furnish” approach to ensure seamless workplace transitions and is a single source for interior design, furniture procurement, delivery and installation, asset disposition, facility decommissioning and ancillary project services.  Through its Office Furniture Center brand, which includesOfficeFurnitureCenter.com and a 200,000-square-foot showroom, Rightsize also provides a single source for quality workstations, desks, seating, filing, conference and reception furniture. For more information please visitwww.rightsizefacility.com.