Business
A Savvy Guide To Office Downsizing
Many organizations today reduce their office space for good reasons, such as efficient cost-cutting, boosting productivity, and promoting a positive working environment. And because of changing market demands, some companies consider downsizing to improve their efficiency as they shift to remote or hybrid work. On the other hand, others invest in tech solutions instead of hiring more people to perform functions, eliminating the need for a large office space.
Regardless of the reason, downsizing your office can be a strategic move for your business. And to help you get started, check out the best office downsizing tips outlined in this savvy guide.
Consider Hot Desking
The traditional office workplace system involves one team member per desk or with an assigned individual workstation. In this setup, you own your desk until you get promoted or leave the company, and nobody can use it even if you’re not using it. But hot-desking changes this conventional workplace system.
Hot desking involves employees working in rotation at any available desks. It means you can use any desk as long as it’s vacant. Hot desking maximizes efficiency, improves team collaboration, and minimizes the cost of providing more desks, computers, and chairs for additional employees of a growing company.
Hot desking can be a practical choice for self-employed professionals or small businesses. Instead of renting an entire office space, they can choose hot desking to meet with clients and engage with prospects. Moreover, freelance workers or independent contractors can handle multiple projects and collaborate with other professionals on hot desks.
Now that you realize the benefits, are hot desks right for you? Check more details online on how to book a hot desk workplace in your area today.
Leverage Technology
You can significantly reduce your office footprint by leveraging technology. Just imagine how much space bulky fax machines, computers, copiers, and other obsolete office equipment take up in your office. Physical storage solutions like filing cabinets and office storage also eat space. That said, you can downsize your office area by upgrading your office tools and utilizing tech solutions.
One of the ways you can do this is by going paperless. Scan all paper documents and invest in a safe digital or cloud storage solution as your office slowly transition to digital practices. You can also look into using electronic signatures and online faxing to save paper and for faster business transactions.
Declutter Your Office
Another way you can minimize your office footprint is by eliminating unnecessary things within your work areas. This way, you can free up areas in your office and determine wasted space. This can help you make a more informed decision on whether to retain your current office space or move to one with smaller square feet.
You can encourage your employees to declutter their workstations and sort supplies that are no longer in need. You can also contact a recycling company to pick up old, malfunctioning computers, printers, and other electronic waste. In addition, you can work with a commercial cleaning company to declutter and clean your office.
Rent A Storage Space For Other Supplies And Equipment
Because offices are usually located in central business districts, commercial space rentals are high. That said, you can rent a self-storage container or area for office equipment and supplies you don’t often use in your operations to save money on renting a bigger office. This downsizing strategy can save you up to half of what you’re currently paying on office rentals. You can check storage companies in your area, compare their rates, and check testimonials to choose the best one for your business.
Renovate Your Workspace
As you remove clutter and unnecessary supplies and equipment in your office, hiring professional designers can help you downsize your office space more efficiently. Interior designers and architects can help maximize every square foot of space you have so you get the most out of your workspaces.
In addition, when renovating your office space, you can go for a minimalist approach. Modern workspaces today have sleek, lightweight, and easy-to-move office furniture, such as stackable chairs and foldable tables. By following suit, you can have a more spacious and efficient office space since you can transfer them quickly from one room to another. It’s also best to minimize storage boxes and file cabinets to prevent accumulating unnecessary things inside the office.
Final Words
Modern work arrangements today include remote (work-from-home) and hybrid (combination of in-office and remote employees) teams. Because of this, more companies are considering downsizing their offices to cut costs and promote better efficiency.
Hopefully, the tips above can help you downsize your office space. And for more favorable results, you can work with an interior designer or architect to help you maximize your office space.
Kenneth is a proud native of sydney, born and raised there. However, he pursued his education abroad and studied in Australia. Kenneth has worked as a journalist for almost a decade, making valuable contributions to prominent publications such as Yahoo News and The Verge. Currently, he serves as a journalist for The Hear Up, where he focuses on covering climate and science news. You can reach Kenneth at [email protected].
