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Workplace Trends
Technology Has a Big Impact on Workplace Design
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File Cabinets for Form and Function
When purchasing file cabinets, it is important to consider both form and function. For some consumers, the function of the file cabinets will be a priority, while others will consider the appearance of the file cabinets as more important.
Functionally, consumers have a number of options available to them including vertical/lateral cabinet set-ups and how much room is available. Consumers will have to decide where the file cabinets will be stored. Many file cabinets are designed to fit underneath a desk, while larger file cabinets will require a dedicated space for storing the unit.
Consumers also have a wide variety of options when it comes to the appearance of these cabinets. File cabinets come in an assortment of materials, colors and finishes. Some of the materials commonly used to construct file cabinets include plastic, wood and metal.
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Technology Trends Which Influence Office Furniture
Office furniture must keep up with technological trends, therefore when computer and monitor sizes change, desks must evolve, too.
In recent years, CPUs have gotten smaller and computer monitors have gotten bigger. These changes in technology naturally cause a shift in the design of office furniture because there is no longer a need for the desk to provide ample space for large equipment. Instead, more space is needed for a monitor. Since many computer desks provide a stand for computer monitors, they must now be designed to accommodate the larger screens. However, there has also been an increasing trend in flat screen monitors. Although monitors are now wider than in the past, they are smaller in terms of depth. Other technology trends, such as the advent of multi-purpose machines for printing, faxing and photocopying, also influence office furniture. Previously, there was a need to accommodate three bulky pieces of equipment. Now, consumers can purchase one compact device to serve all three purposes.
Take a look at your equipment and then decide which type of office furniture is best for you.
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Consider Workplace Culture When Purchasing Furniture
Workplace culture should be considered when purchasing office furniture to help maintain or promote a healthy work environment. When purchasing furniture, think about the company's mission and the feelings the company wants to portray.
A company wishing to create a formal and professional office culture should purchase rigid furniture, while a company hoping to create a more relaxed workplace might invest in more creative styles. For example, desks and cubicle walls keep employees isolated and helps to promote individualism, while shared office spaces and lower cubicle walls helps to create a more relaxed atmosphere and encourages teamwork.
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Consider Employment Trends When Purchasing Office Furniture
When purchasing office furniture, it is important to carefully consider employment trends. This is important because the employment trends directly impact the quantity and type of office furniture which is necessary. For example, a company which expects to hire a large number of permanent administrative employees may wish to purchase additional office furniture, such as office desks and chairs. However, a company who expects to hire a number of temporary employees to perform administrative tasks may want to consider other options, such as renting office furniture. A company who expects to hire new executive personnel may want to invest in refurnishing their executive offices. These offices usually contain higher-end pieces like larger desks constructed of high-quality materials.
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Workplace Changes Which Warrant New Office Furniture
There are a number of workplace changes which may warrant new office furniture. Some of these changes may include hiring new employees, changing office locations or changing job functions. Workplace laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, requires employers to make reasonable accommodations to help disabled employees perform job functions. Therefore, it might become necessary to purchase or lease new office furniture if you hire someone with disabilities or if a current employee becomes disabled. Sometimes even relocating an office may be cause for new office furniture.
Changing job functions could also warrant new office furniture. Employees who are required to complete new skills may need different furniture to complete their job function.
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Workplace Laws to Consider When Furnishing an Office
Employers have an obligation to consider workplace laws when furnishing an office. This includes the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA). This is important because failure to comply with these laws may leave an employer subject to lawsuits from employees.
To summarize, ADA specifies that an employer must provide equal access to employment opportunities to all individuals, including those with disabilities. This may mean it is necessary to purchase special furniture to enable a disabled employee to perform job functions when it is reasonable to do so. OSHA requires employers to comply with government safety and health standards which help to ensure a work environment free of dangers that can cause injury or death. Complying with these standards not only helps to prevent lawsuits, but also creates a working environment which is safer for everyone involved. OSHA also includes guidelines regarding lighting and noise levels. It might be necessary to purchase specific office equipment to meet these guidelines.
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Computer Furniture for New Technology
As new technology is developed, the furniture industry must make adjustments too. Computer desks are continually being redesigned to accommodate technological advances. In the past, when computers were significantly larger, desks needed to have a larger surface area. However, modern computers are relatively small and desks don't need to be as bulky. Since dimensions of computer screens have changed and wider screens are becoming more common, monitor stands have had to evolve to accommodate these new screen sizes.
Other technology trends which influence computer furniture are the development of office-related gadgets. These smaller items, such as personal digital assistants, music devices and other handheld items, create unique needs in the workplace. Computer desks accommodate these new gadgets with features such as additional storage space and the inclusion of trays designed to hold these devices.
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Corner Desk Design Options
A corner desk can be an efficient use of space for both home and corporate offices. This type of desk can be rather compact and provide ample desk space without consuming too much of the room. However, many consumers are apprehensive about purchasing this type of desk because they believe they will not have as many design options available to them. This is a misconception because corner desks offer most of the features available in other types of desks including built-in shelving and lighting, keyboard trays, storage space and elevated areas for computer monitors. With all of the available design options combined with the compactness of a corner desk, you can find one that suits your style and decor.
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