Walking into a business, what’s the first thing that you notice? It’s not the company’s mission statement, its growth over the past year, or even its employees. More likely than not, it’s the office furniture. After all, that’s the first thing that you see. And we all know how lasting first impressions can be.
From the aesthetic decisions (which pictures to hang on the wall, what colors should the chairs be?) to the logistics (are cubicles the way to go? Or perhaps a more open floor plan?), choosing office furniture can be a long- and sometimes, daunting- process.
Even home businesses should choose office furniture wisely.
While personal taste and style will play a major part in the furnishing of any office, there are some general ideas to consider when customizing your workplace. Here are some ideas to consider as you try to get the most out of your “Office Space”.
What is Office Furniture?
Generally speaking, office furniture is anything that “furnishes” your office. This includes the big stuff- desks, chairs, filing cabinets, and cubicles- along with the accessories- office carts, desk organizers, and mail sorters, for example.
Who Needs Office Furniture?
Whether you’re an established business or just starting out, it may be time to pick out some new office furniture.
Older businesses might consider new office furniture if they feel that the look and feel of their office is outdated or unappealing to customers and clients. These businesses might decide to give the entire look of the space a makeover, removing all or almost all of their existing furniture to be replaced by new items. Or, they might keep their traditional look but update the allover “feel” with a few pieces, i.e. replacing all of the chairs but keeping the desks.
Office furniture is also an important choice for businesses that are just starting out. A professional environment gives clients the idea that you are already headed for success.
Even home businesses should choose office furniture wisely. Whether or not a client will ever step foot into your home, a well-planned office space means less clutter and more productivity.
What are the Possible Benefits of Office Furniture?
Great office furniture can turn a stuffy, cluttered office into an esthetically pleasing and well-designed workspace. This can have a huge impact on company morale. Employees may enjoy their space more, thus feeling more valued and committed to their professional goals with the company.
For home offices, professional office furniture may be that next step in taking your business to the next level. Are all of your files stacked on a bookshelf? Is your desk simply not big enough? Investing in office furniture may allow you to get serious and get organized, encouraging motivation and a streamlined work environment.
A well designed workspace can also positively impact productivity in the workplace. If an employee, for example, must walk through a maze of cubicles to get to the printer, it can take valuable time away from the important duties he or she should really be doing. In designing a workspace with new office furniture, the entire layout of the office can be changed to accommodate the needs of different company departments or employees.
Last but not least is the impact that great office furniture can have on a company’s image. Conference room furniture, for example, can greatly effect the production of a business meeting and the impression that potential clients will get of your company. A modern and professional conference room, with adequate seating and a multimedia set-up, could leave a lasting and positive image with any company that comes to talk business.
What are the Possible Disadvantages of Office Furniture?
Perhaps the most likely danger in purchasing new office furniture is choosing the wrong furniture. Your best bet? Take a close look at your space before shopping, and use some common sense. If your office is cramped as it is, choosing bulky pieces is probably not the solution for you. If you’re looking for an open, loft-like feel, simple cubicles are not going to work. Take measurements of your office and each workspace as it is, to give you an idea to compare new pieces to.
Also be wary of going overboard- even if you’re giving your entire office a complete makeover. You might want to try starting with the basics first, and then deciding which accessories or auxiliary pieces you really need. Does your dog have a small desk in your home office? If so, you’ve probably gone overboard.
The Bottom Line:
Well-chosen office furniture is often well worth the investment, boosting productivity and enhancing your business image- just make sure to choose the right furniture, and don’t go overboard!
