The Rise of the Agile Workspace
Oct 13, 2020
The only constant in today’s modern work environment is that it’s constantly changing. Smart companies understand this, as well as how to evolve, adapt, and rise to meet the ever-shifting demands of an agile workspace. They foster innovation, adopt the latest technology, and give employees everything they need to be successful. Weathering the winds of change requires that your entire office become agile — yes, even your workspace.
Building Flexibility into Everything (Even Your Workspace)
What is an agile workspace?
The short answer is: a worthwhile investment. It’s simply a smart move to adopt new ways to exist within your workplace. Having the ability to reconfigure and rearrange your office space on demand allows you to:
- Optimize your space and make the most of what you have
- Positively impact collaboration, creativity, productivity, and overall employee health
- Potentially reduce your environmental impact
With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why companies are adopting this type of work environment. Here are a few tips to help you create your own flexible workspace with furniture that’s multi-functional and growth-focused.
How to Build an Agile Workspace
Building flexibility into an office environment will look different for everyone. Depending on your business model, you may need a blend of traditional and flexible options, but there are a few steadfast rules that can apply to most spaces.
1. Break it up.
At work, employees generally need three types of work environments: a place to focus on individual tasks, a place to collaborate with other team members, and a comfortable place to take a break. For solo work, a traditional cubicle may be the answer, or you might want something more suited to an open floor plan — like modular, height-adjustable desks. For collaborative work, it’s important to think outside the box (or meeting room). Create neutral, public spaces where people feel comfortable sharing ideas. Think couches, modular benching, and large workstations with lots of natural lighting. Lastly, remember to give employees a place to get away from work. Using modular and movable walls, you can create break areas that allow employees to sit with a cup of coffee or chat with a coworker.
2. Grow with the flow.
Becoming agile requires a growth mindset. It’s hard to predict what technological or cultural disruption will strike next, but it’s crucial that companies remain open to change. This means looking ahead and ensuring that your office space can adapt, pivot, and ultimately, grow with you. Space planning, modular office furniture, and furniture leasing are all great ways to “future-proof” your work environment. Whether you’re just starting a business or you’re expanding in unanticipated ways, think about how to evolve in a way that allows you to remain flexible into the future.
3. Contain the clutter.
As office environments become more flexible, it’s easy for storage to fall by the wayside. Impermanent desks and public spaces may be great for collaboration and creativity, but at times, it can be unsettling for some employees who want a place to call “home.” In these instances, portable storage can be a great way to balance agility and security, while giving your employees a spot to stash their personal belongings and work-related necessities. This is the perfect solution for those that need some space in an environment that is always changing.
Let us help.
Our team at Workplace Furniture is dedicated to providing smart, sensible, and affordable solutions that work and grow with you. We offer services that help you make the most of your space. From planning services and budgeting to move management and installation, we’re committed to ensuring your office space is set up for success.
