New, more efficient office space is always on the minds of managers. This is mainly due to continued business growth. Management is key to the design process so the result is best use of office space.
Important Factors in New Office Space Design
Management contributes input to new office space design by providing specific business needs and use of space that adapts to daily performance of duties by management and employees.
A growing business needs to plan office space design well in advance of the start of construction, based on data analyses of potential business growth. Comparative growth studies are a good indication of how much additional new office space is needed and also how the quantity of new business systems and machines affect floor space.
Growth Potential
Allow for areas of open space with future growth in mind. For example, an open conference area located away from cubicles and workstations. Also be mindful that the design of office space must comply with OSHA regulations regarding the size and depth of workstations as well as local municipal fire and safety compliance.
Work Environment
Provide sufficient privacy for workstations that do not inhibit employee’s ability to perform their duties. The design of workstation locations should also meet ergonomic needs for comfort of office occupants. Create a workstation zone free of noise and other distractions. It should also be equipped with adequate lighting from daylight as well as electrical lighting.
Increase Focus
Remove unnecessary clutter or areas of potential clutter such as unnecessary office equipment that could be replaced with multi-tasking, hi tech equipment that takes up less space. Make certain clutter with potential for fire hazards are regularly disposed of.
Proper Design
Compartmentalize office space with dedicated zones such as locating management suites and reception areas so employees have ready access to management. An office space with sufficient square footage can accommodate up to five ergonomically designed zones with compartmentalization for a management team, workstations, conference area, office equipment and office supply storage area.
Productivity
Before the construction crew begins the work of implementing the design of new, more efficient office space, consider how the space is used and also the future use as it relates to normal daily performance of business. Your construction time will be longer if there is not a plan of action and the crew manager has to get approval for every little thing. You don’t want a stop and go situation. You should have everything clearly ready so when they arrive they can focus on bringing your vision into a reality. This is especially true if the offices are closed doing a remodel or construction. There are two way radios for multiple industries that you can use to communicate with the construction manager in case any questions or issues arise. This encourages greater productivity and clear and concise communication
Leave detailed office design and schematics to professional design experts. However, be available to offer management input as needed. Also, when the construction phase commences, be sure to plan ahead for the continuance of daily business.
Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.
