Setting up a new office is an experience that can be both exciting and tiring, and sometimes even overwhelming!
The challenges of moving into a new working space are similar to moving into a new home. Setting up a new office comes with a unique set of hurdles, and a goal of creating a productive, safe and inviting space for your team.
What complicates the process even further is the variety of office types that are available, ranging from small 6 man welfare units to full-fledged commercial offices. This is why one might say that setting up your new office can be even tougher than moving into a new home.
Developing a detailed plan is the best way to make sure your office is set up as per your unique requirements. To help you out we have outlined a list of tips that will help you to make the most of the setup process whilst minimising stress.
Let’s take a look at the Steps to Set Up Your New Office
1. Select a Convenient Location
The location of your new office is one of the most important decisions you need to make, as it will help you attract clients and retain employees. It is a well-known fact that employees consider the work location when applying for a job. What this means is that it is always a good idea to set up your new office in a prime location that is easily accessible and requires minimal travelling.
Picking a location near a major subway or bus station is another smart move that you can take advantage of. This not only makes it easier for employees, but also makes it easier for your clients to visit you.
2. Install Advanced Features
The key to setting up a perfect office is by maintaining a balance in aesthetics, functionality and security. One clever way to achieve this is by installing advanced features in your establishment – for example, through automatic door installations, integrated security solutions, smart automation of AC or HVAC systems and more!
These features will not only enhance the level of comfort in your office but also give it a professional look, allowing you to create a positive first impression on clients and visitors by showcasing your commitment to innovation. Furthermore, automated lights, appliances and devices to be turned off when not in use, reducing energy wastage.
3. Create a Healthy Environment
There are several ways to increase the overall productivity in your organisation – a healthy office environment tops the list. By following a few simple steps you can create a healthy environment in your office. Start by getting comfortable chairs and adjustable desks that will help your employees to keep their posture straight. You can even install standing desks and encourage employees to make use of both at regular intervals to maintain a healthy balance.
Besides the right seating arrangements, you should prioritise maintaining your office’s indoor air quality. This is especially true if your office is located in an area with a high amount of pollution. To eliminate this problem, many business establishments conduct air testing. Professionals providing air testing in Essex and London also offer recommendations on how your indoor air quality can be improved. Implementing these recommendations enables you to create a healthier environment for all the residents of your office.
4. Build a Functional Layout
For your business to be successful, your employees need to be connected and work collectively towards a common business goal. A well-designed and properly arranged office layout will help you achieve this harmony. You should try arranging all the furniture, fixtures, equipment, supplies and accessories to facilitate easy movement while maximising space.
Arrange the desks in such a way that there is sufficient distance between two employees, allowing them to work without any disturbance. You could also go for individual cabins, however do ensure that your employees do not feel disconnected or isolated.
5. Choose the Right Lighting
Light is an essential aspect of your office infrastructure. It can affect everything from the mood to level of energy and productivity in your office. Did you know that the best lighting for your office is the one that is so subtle that you don’t even notice it?
Your lighting shouldn’t be so harsh that you end up with a headache by the end of the day. Go for soft LED lights that provide sufficient illumination whilst being cost-effective.
Making use of natural light is another excellent lighting method that is known to be a mood booster. To take maximum advantage of sunlight you can install big glass windows and doors in your office, allowing the light to fill in the rooms effortlessly. Sunlight is the biggest source of vitamin D, which can significantly benefit everyone’s health in your organisation and also create a cheerfully warm environment.
6. Bring in the Essential Supplies
When you are setting up your new office, you are likely to be focused on important things like setting up a communication system, wifi networks and more. While these are definitely some things you should pay great attention to, the setup would be incomplete without the supplies you need for day-to-day work.
Stock up on supplies like paper, notebooks, toner, folders, mailing supplies, eatables, first aid kit and more. A pro tip – make sure your coffee machine is up and running with enough coffee sachets in stock.
To Sum It Up
So there you have it, our complete guide for setting up your new office. When you are planning to run a new business, it requires a lot of thinking and careful consideration of various aspects. Similarly, when you are setting up a new office, you need to plan everything carefully, making sure nothing goes wrong and all the arrangements are done without any errors. We understand this is not a walk in the park, but it brings along a lot of excitement and rewarding opportunities in its wake. By following the tips mentioned in this article, you should be able to set up a perfect office space that is both beautiful and functional.
