You may not give too much thought to your office furniture. After all, all employees really need is a desk to hold their computer and a chair to sit in. If you want to improve productivity in the office, it may be time to reconsider your arrangement. Comfortable employees can usually work more efficiently, so a few simple changes to the furniture and layout can make a world of difference. Prioritize Comfort Your first impulse might be to buy the most inexpensive office furniture to fit your needs, but you may want to reconsider. Choosing pieces that are ergonomically designed can make your employees more comfortable, making their day more productive. Update office chairs to ensure that they provide proper support for your employees' backs. If there isn't money in the budget for new furniture, purchase ergonomic cushions for existing chairs. Ergonomic keyboards, mouses, and keyboard trays can also help boost comfort around the office. Maximize Space It can be difficult for employees to concentrate if they're working in a cramped, cluttered space. That's why it's important to maximize space and help make the office more comfortable. In a small space, consider using L-shaped desks that you can easily tuck into corners to free up space in the center of the room. Make use of vertical space. Instead of a wide, low filing cabinet that takes up an entire wall, try one or two tall, skinny filing cabinets. You can also stack several short filing cabinets on top of one another instead of side by side. If you have older files that aren't needed on a regular basis, have them put in storage or converted to digital copies so they aren't taking up room in the office. Wall-mounted storage pieces, such as shelving or cubbies, can also free up valuable space in the office. Encourage Collaboration If your office thrives on a collaborative spirit, choose office furniture that helps foster cooperation among employees. In a conference room, ditch a long, rectangular table in favor of a round style that allows for employees to see and hear one another better. When it comes to work stations, opt for open style cubicles or those with clear panel walls and cutouts that allow co-workers to converse more easily. Make Use of Views Proper lighting isn't just necessary for employees to get their work done. If the lighting isn't optimal, it can affect their mood. It isn't just poor, dim lighting that strains eyes and decreases productivity. Harsh, artificial light usually isn't a hit with employees either. If your space has windows, try to arrange your office furniture so employees receive natural light at their desks. Positioning desks and cubicles near windows can also provide workers with views of the surrounding scenery, which can be highly motivating. If your office doesn't receive much natural light, go with soft lighting instead of strong, florescent lights to create a more comfortable working environment. To learn more about their options for office furniture, Grand Rapids, MI residents should visit http://wmoi.com/.
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