A mistake that many business owners make when picking out office furniture is ignoring how it will impact the overall functionality and ambiance of the office. Certain office furniture designs and features can actually enhance productivity and focus, relieve stress, and improve workplace culture. When choosing the office layout, design, and furniture, think of it as an opportunity to promote the overall wellness of your team. Be thoughtful in selecting design elements and consider how each choice will benefit the workplace as a whole.
At Gibson’s Office Solutions, we offer business office furniture that meets a wide range of needs. Our modular office furniture is ideal for a flexible modern workplace, while our ergonomic equipment and supplies support comfort and efficiency. In addition to furniture, we also carry affordable office supplies, cleaning supplies, safety and PPE, ink and toner, copy paper, break room supplies, and even promotional products. Learn more about how the design of your office impacts employee productivity, stress, and culture, then call us to discuss making key upgrades to your office design.
Thoughtful Office Floor Plans and Layouts
The way the office is designed can either contribute to or detract from the workplace culture. An open floor plan might appear to foster collaboration, communication, and teamwork, but its success depends on your industry and the personality of those on your team. For instance, some employees see an open floor plan as lacking in privacy or encouraging micromanagement or employer surveillance. Others may have a hard time concentrating or hearing clients on the phone in a noisy, bustling environment. Conversely, if you work in a creative field that relies on constant feedback and interaction between departments, eliminating offices and cubicles could make interoffice communication easier.
Accessibility and Movement
Another factor to consider is how accessible and easy to navigate the office is. If you have a large, multi-floor property, can employees get to and from different departments or areas quickly? If some staff relies on assistive mobility devices to get around, are the aisles wide enough to accommodate them? A lot of clutter, large pieces of furniture, and carpeting or area rugs can hinder accessibility and movement. Employees may feel stressed about the idea of going from one department or floor to another, which could ultimately minimize productivity and efficiency. During an office redesign, focus on streamlining the office so that it’s easier to navigate. Use modular office furniture that can be easily moved or rearranged as needed. Limit the use of area rugs and be mindful of trip hazards.
Workplace Ergonomics
Workplace ergonomics is the study of how people work in their work environment. It aims to improve working conditions and reduce the risk of stress, strain, and injury by improving office design and equipment. You can facilitate this within your own office by modifying the layout, design, and furniture to benefit each department and its working style. Evaluate how each department works throughout the day, including the equipment they use, how they use it, and how they communicate and collaborate. Then choose furniture and decor that complements that workflow and makes it faster, easier, and more comfortable. Your goal is to streamline the office design so that employees are less likely to feel stressed, rushed, or uncomfortable. Some of the most helpful and effective tools used in an ergonomic workplace include:
- Anti-fatigue mats for standing
- Sit-stand desks
- Fully adjustable office chairs
- Seat cushions
- Monitor arm lifts or monitor stands
- Dual monitors
- Document holders
- Ergonomic keyboards
- Wrist rests
- Keyboard trays
- Screen protectors to minimize eye strain
- Headsets for telephones
- Foot rests
- Adjustable lighting
Designated Break Areas
In addition to supporting your staff as they work, you should also make it clear that they are allowed to take breaks. Not only are breaks federally regulated, they have also been proven to improve clarity, focus, productivity, and employee morale. Creating designated break areas that give employees time to decompress, refuel, and refresh will actually support the overall quality of their work. Create an indoor and outdoor area that includes comfortable seating, tables, and amenities like a television, microwave, refrigerator, and break room snacks. Employees are less likely to zone out at work or find excuses to leave early if they know they have a comfortable place to take a much-needed break.
Find Affordable, Quality Office Furniture and Supplies at Gibson’s Office Solutions
At Gibson’s Office Solutions, our office supply store provides everything you need to modernize your workspace. We offer stylish, affordable office furniture for all areas of your building, from the reception area and private offices to conference rooms, break rooms, and restrooms. We also carry a wide range of facility supplies, office supplies, and break room supplies. Call us today or reach out to us online to learn more, review our inventory, or get a quote.