The Most Efficient Methods to Divide Your Office Workspace
Dividing your office workspace can maximize efficiency, prevent stagnation, and make your business run smoother. This is especially true for businesses that focus heavily on production, but it can be just as advantageous for traditional office spaces as well.
Partitioning work environments requires some planning and forethought in order to execute on a good plan. The first step is identifying the various methods used for dividing up a workspace, so your business can choose the right approach.
DESKING OPTIONS
It may seem counterproductive to consider a piece of office furniture like a desk as a method of dividing a workspace, but it’s true. U-shaped and L-shaped office desks can be instrumental in sectioning off fully furnished work environments, thereby eliminating the need to purchase extra dividers.
These desks are also highly beneficial for employees who need to multitask, while taking care of a wide array of items. Having dedicated desks for computer workstations as well as storage for things like books, files and copy are always handy. However, when used as an office divider, it can create a sense of flow and proper direction as well. Additionally, you can also try implementing hot desks, shared coworking spaces designed for multiple employees.
Identifying how many employees can utilize the same desk can significantly cut down on unnecessary clutter, thereby streamlining the entire area.
PRIVACY PANELS
Dividing up the office also means separating employees when necessary, particularly for those who need a little privacy in order to complete their work. Privacy panels are a great option, as they are relatively low-cost, and easily installable. This allows for the effective separation of desks so that employees are not lashed with distractions on a near-constant basis.
Even within the concept of an open office environment, privacy panels can help strike a good balance between worker solidarity and privacy. They’re also easy to remove, which is great for businesses that are growing at a rapid pace and don’t have the resources to construct private office space.
Of course, privacy panels are also vital for those working with sensitive information that should not be privy to everyone who walks by. This includes accountants and HR reps who may not have the luxury of private offices, and are working within a commons area.
GLASS PARTITIONS
The aforementioned open office environment has picked up significant steam over the last decade, and it seems to be the go-to model for many businesses who are not trying to stay trendy, but also foster a sense of enthusiasm within the workplace.
For this reason, glass partitions are an excellent option when it comes to preserving this look and feel, while still allowing for the division of the workspace. There are a number of significant benefits to glass partitions, including the fact that they do not block the presence of natural light, nor do they obscure and isolate employees.
This is a “best of both worlds” approach that can help cut down on sound-related distractions, while still allowing employees to feel like they’re part of a bustling, energetic team. It also sends a strong message to both clients and employees that trust and openness is a vital component of the business.
And finally, glass partitions can easily be torn down and redeployed in quick succession, which is great for companies in the midst of a major growth spurt and require flexible terms. They are also available in many different styles, including tinted, patterned, or frosted, for those who want a bit more privacy.
OPEN SHELVING
This is one method of dividing an office that tends to get overlooked by many companies, but it’s an important one. Open shelving does exactly as the name suggests by acting as large dividers to section off a workspace, while preserving an open office feel.
Open shelving units can be used to store important items, tech devices or decor, while still allowing people to see each other moving about, and allowing light to filter through largely unabated. They’re one of the most aesthetically pleasing methods of dividing up an office, blending style with functionality.
WHITEBOARD DIVIDERS
These days, whiteboards are a convenient go-to solution for teams who need to jot their ideas down quickly, while they’re still fresh. They’re also extremely convenient for reminding teams to stay on task, or for use as motivational devices.
The presence of online organization tools like Slack and Monday are great, but there’s no substitute for a tangible, physical whiteboard to keep everyone in the loop. They can also be used as an office divider, and they’re one of the most versatile of these methods.
Whiteboard dividers tend to be affixed with casters to allow them to be moved around, which can allow for makeshift dividing at a moment’s notice. These casters can also be locked in order to keep the whiteboard in place, acting as semi-permanent dividers.
In addition to their functional benefits, whiteboard dividers can give the office a trendy feel by showcasing the company’s fondness for good old fashioned team building and planning.
CONCLUSION
With so many versatile options available, it’s easy to divide up a workspace while creating a sense of functionality and efficiency. Don’t be afraid to get creative when deciding which of these options to apply in your workspace, and how to deploy them for maximum benefit. All it takes is a little planning when it comes to the needs of your employees, and how they relate to the overall functionality of your workspace.