Tips for Planning and Arranging Productive Workspaces

Workspace elements such as furniture, lighting, equipment andrecreational spaces are all linked to employee motivation. Organizations could follow the tips below to boost organizational efficiency and productivity (Knoll Workplace Study, “ADAPTABLE BY DESIGN”, 2012). One retailer that offers various kinds of office furniture is AJ Products.

Good workplace design helps boost employee motivation and organizational productivity. Especially in those areas where employees come together to work or socialize, installing appropriate furniture and equipment could help keep them relaxed and energetic. For example, workspaces such as conference rooms, presentation rooms, canteens, etc, are key workspace areas where design plays a role.

Hence, organizations can keep the following tipsin mind when planning and arranging these workspaces:

Appropriate furniture

Having appropriate quality furniture could give organizations a more stable, professional impression. Organizations could also install ergonomic tables and chairs for employee well-being. For meeting rooms and private offices, organizations could invest in sturdy vinyl conference chairs paired with glass tables.Wood paneling could be another aesthetic addition through the use of cabinets and wall surfaces (Murray Newlands, INC.COM, “7 REASONS WHY GREAT OFFICE FURNITURE INCREASES PRODUCTIVITY”, 2014).

Adequate lighting

According to an article by business efficiency and marketing consultant Andrew Jensen, having good lighting can help channel creativity. Ambient lighting and natural light sources help keep employees inspired and energized. Natural light is also a necessity for good health (Andrew Jensen, “HOW OFFICE LIGHTING AFFECTS PRODUCTIVITY”, 2016). Organizations could consider natural light sources while constructing or choosing office spaces. Having many windows is one way to have good lighting. If this option is not available, natural light simulators could be installed.

Recreational spaces

Relaxed and peaceful employees are more likely to finish projects successfully. In general, having space and time for recreation at workplaces can have a positiveeffect on employees (Intuit Inc, “BENEFITS OF CREATING A RECREATIONAL AREA AT WORK”, 2015). Pantries and lounges with snacks and board games could form effective recreational spaces. Another advantage of having separate recreational spaces is that it could help employees stay healthy and fit. Studies show that sitting in one place for long durations has adverse effects on employees’ minds and bodies (Leonard Lopate, WNYC, “SITTING TOO MUCH IS HARMFUL FOR OUR BODIES, MINDS, AND SPIRITS”, 2014). Having a recreational space could encourage employees to spend a few minutes every day moving around instead of sitting in one place.

Another factor organizations could consider is the color scheme of furniture, walls, doors, etc. Vibrant colors have positive effects on employees (Kim Lachance Shandrow, Entrepreneur, “HOW THE COLOR OF YOUR OFFICE IMPACTS PRODUCTIVITY (INFOGRAPHIC)”, 2015). For example, conference room furniture in black or brown colors could be matched with light pastel orange walls or carpets. This could create an inspiring atmosphere. By paying attention to these few vital factors, organizations could create a harmonious and productive work environment where employees stay motivated and perform efficiently. Organizations could also take employees’ feedback on how to improve workplace ambience, and accordingly invest in furniture types, lighting options and décor that employees would prefer. One company which offers a range of products in office furniture and equipments is AJ Products. More information, as well as product catalogues, can be found on their website.