Collaborative workspaces are all the rage in office design, but is this recent development just a fad, or have we really found a better way to work? Here are the answers to the things that you've been dying to know about the benefits of collaborative workspaces:
Why are collaborative workspaces suddenly so popular?
It seems like just about every company is waving bye-bye to traditional desks and replacing them with casual conversation areas — but why the sudden conversion? In recent years, a lot has changed about the way we work. As a result, our offices have followed suit.
As laptops and tablets have replaced desktop computers, workers have become more mobile and less tethered to a desk and chair. In most industries, workplace culture is undoubtedly more casual than it was 50 years ago. If you aren't wearing a suit and tie to the office, a buttoned up workspace doesn't make sense. A more casual office culture means more sharing, more collaboration, and more banter throughout the day.
What are the benefits of collaborative workspaces?
Mixing up your office decor to include a collaborative workspace could have far-reaching benefits for your team. If your job involves collaboration, like most jobs do these days, it makes sense to give your team a creative space where they can work together to spitball new ideas and brainstorm on white boards. Even if you don’t work in a creative industry, a collaborative workspace will still be an asset. Employees who feel a close relationship to their coworkers are more invested in their work, and generally feel more committed to the team’s goals. A collaborative workspace will encourage employees to get to know each other better. Though conversation might seem like slacking off, a little bit of banter can only be an asset in the long term.
How do collaborative workspaces help with creativity and team building?
A conference room is good for many things, but fostering creativity is hardly one of them. Leather chairs and a giant roundtable convey a sense of seriousness, which might be good for clients, but often this environment can be stifling for creative thinking. Often, collaborative workspace furniture is modular, allowing employees to rearrange chairs to suit their needs. A laid back and flexible space conveys an idea of openness, encouraging employees to speak their minds.
What are some things to remember when building your collaborative workspace
An open collaborative office has many benefits, but it’s important to give employees privacy as well. Nobody likes to feel like they are being watched while they work, so be sure to offer a variety of workspace options to your team. An office can be too segregating, but modular room dividers will give employees privacy when they need it. Make sure to create a private space especially for conference calls where employees can talk comfortably without fear that they are interrupting other employees. Even in a casual workspace, it’s important to give employees the option for solo time.
The collaborative workspace is the way of the future, and incorporating modular furniture today might lead to a stronger team down the road. If you think your company might be interested in this type of office space, check out the full range of Quill collaborative workspace furniture.