When it comes to purchasing and configuring new office furniture, obviously your business environment is unique – which means you don’t want to take a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Indeed, choices that work for some organizations or in some industries/marketplaces, don’t translate into general rules that you should adopt without doing some research and analysis.
Yet with this in mind, it’s never a bad idea to survey the landscape before making an investment to see where the “smart money” is being spent. And based on what we’re experiencing directly and hearing from our network of manufacturers and dealers, here are the office furniture trends for 2016 that are very hot right now, and will certainly carry over into the future:
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Office Furniture that Enhances Collaboration
Workplace collaboration has always been important. However, it’s only fairly recently that owners and executives have come to appreciate that office furniture – and not just technology, workflows, processes and training -- plays a major role in either enhancing or impeding collaboration.
That’s why more and more businesses in 2016 are switching over to what we can call “collaboration-friendly office furniture”, such as benching-type workstations, which allow employees to go heads-down when they need to focus and concentrate, and connect and interact with colleagues when it’s time to brainstorm and solve problems.
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Sit-Stand Desks
We are seeing an explosion in the popularity of sit-stand desks, which are far superior to standing desks -- which were popular several years ago, yet not particularly appreciated by aching and uncomfortable employees who wanted their chair back!
Sit-stand desks are ergonomically designed to provide personalized posture support when an employee wants to be seated at their workstation. And when they wish to stand up – either to increase circulation, stretch out tired muscles, or simply because it’s more efficient since they’re moving around – their desk elevates accordingly to a standing position. It’s the best of both worlds, and they look very impressive and futuristic!
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Smart Workstations
These days, employees don’t just need ample access to conventional power outlets. They also need USB ports, USB charging ports, and safe storage spaces for all of their gadgets – including tablets, smartphones, flash drives, and the list goes on. Smart workstations are ready-to-roll with advanced technology.
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Less Formal, More Friendly
Last but not least: perhaps what might end up being the year’s most influential trend is a shift to less formal, and more friendly office furniture choices – such as home-inspired kitchen tables in the lunchroom, den-inspired couches, and so on. These are meant to help employees feel more comfortable and engaged at work – by reminding them more of home!
Learn More
To learn more about how to make these and other office furniture trends work in your unique environment, contact the Precision team today. Your consultation with us is free.
In the process of buying new furniture because of an office move? Check out our FREE eBook "How to Move Your Office in 5 Easy Steps":
