Rightsize breaks down the essential elements of the workstation
The workstation is one of the most talked about, debated and celebrated elements of office culture today. Also known as the cubicle, workstations have a variety of different designs and configurations that all contribute to their popularity. But as the debate of open area to private offices rages on, it’s time to think about what are the elements of this type of office furniture that makes it successful.
Key ingredients of a quality workstation:
Privacy Panels - While the five foot walls of the 1990s cubicle may have come down a few feet, workstations require a small element of privacy to make them successful. The panels serve as a barrier to entry for those who might try to invade your workspace, not to mention those walls can reduce noise. Many workstation panels have flexible uses, so panels can also be a place to stick notes and reminders or to hang decor. They are available in a variety of colors and materials, so also work well for branding purposes.
Surface Area - Having enough desk area to store stacks of papers, notebooks and personal items can give an employee a way to make the space their own. Allocating a little extra surface space for taking notes, giving guests a place to sit or lean and some extra space to spread out is an easy way to keep employees from feeling cramped or suffocated in the workspace—and it doesn't have to be much. We know that surface space is a hot commodity in most offices, so just make sure that the cubicle has space to accommodate more than just a computer screen.
Storage - Storage space is important for privacy, organization and keeping the work area manageable. While each business might have different storage requirements, having areas for paperwork, books and files will help keep your space from becoming too cluttered. It’s also nice to have a place to lock up personal items when you leave the building for meetings or to have lunch, which is why lockable cabinets have been an essential component of the workstation for so long.
Technology - Even though we work in a wireless world, access to permanent technology options at one’s desk is critical. Whether that means a landline, printer access or ethernet cabling, a workstation should be outfitted with ample technology to help workers succeed. Make sure that each cubicle is wired with the proper cabling for your business—something that sounds much easier than it is. Call in an expert to make sure this part is handled correctly.
Good Chair - We know that furnishing an entire office space with ergonomic features isn’t always easy, so focus at a minimum on a quality office chair. A quality chair will have lumbar back support, arm rests and adjustable features to accommodate the different sizes of employees. If an employee feels uncomfortable in their chairs, odds are they are feeling uncomfortable at work, so it’s an easy preventative measure for keeping people happy in their workstatons.
Need help finding the right cubicle or workstation for your business? Rightsize has a team of in-house design professionals who are well equipped to manage the selection and installation process of your office furniture from start to finish.
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 includes OfficeFurnitureCenter.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 visit www.rightsizefacility.com.
