Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Understanding the Relationship Between Office Design and Profits

By Steven Jones

Paying attention to office design and building maintenance are imperative facets to going about doing business that many corporation owners ignore. The design of office interiors can have a deep end result on the disposition and production of workers and upper management. Keeping a well-maintained office is crucial in reference to health and safety concerns. By utilizing proper design and upkeep, offices are able to benefit from some kind of control over the contentment, welfare, and effectiveness of not only their workers, but themselves also.

It would seem to be obvious that the better off and healthier an individual is, the more prolific that person will be. Even if company owners might appreciate this idea, they quite often disregard the effects that office design can have on their workers. Many times, building maintenance is neglected, resulting in terrible air quality or hazardous areas within the place of work. Additionally, the incorrect colors, equipment setup, or level of noise can negatively effect the temperment and minds of those operating within such conditions.

One great way to start improving office design is to reflect on the total amount of disorder that is presently in the place of work. Office interiors that allow little room for movement can create feelings of being "closed in" or claustrophobia. Many home offices wind up structured in this style, with extra office equipment or furniture taking up most of the available space. By opening things up and producing space, many individuals will get a sense of freedom. What must be realized is that these emotions can turn into a more positive mood, more contact with others, and more collaboration.

Bringing in plants and flowers can have a wonderful result on the individuals working in a workplace. Office interiors filled with nature can have a soothing effect. When an office is experienced as too sterile, individuals can yet again feel closed in, which might result in a more antagonistic office space. Try using windows that expose green lawns or garden areas. One more useful idea to improve office design is to be conscientious of the noise level. If workplace equipment or nearby traffic are too deafening, the sound can have a negative impact on anyone working. Try using extra carpet, blinds, or office partitions to aid with any extra noise.

An office design change could be required when the office interiors are comprised of design schemes and furniture from two to three decades ago. Numerous older office places are made murky with shadowy colored furniture, rugs and curtains. By shaking up the office with more vivid colors and extra open spaces, the work atmosphere can be altered from a routine experience to one that helps bring a cheerful and peaceful feeling to each person who enters the updated space.

Building maintenance should be looked at when going through any office design modifications. Maintenance is required to keep all facets of the place of business in excellent working condition. Normal office cleanings keep the workspace free from dust and dirt. Things such as the roof must be sustained in order to avert water leaks, which will just bring about more costs to the business when the inside of the place of business experiences water damage.

One part of building maintenance that is often disregarded is the air quality. Any office design arrangement should include the right amount of waste cans to collect waste correctly. Refrigerators must be in any kitchen spot to avoid food from going bad. All waste should be disposed of in a punctual manner. Plants and flowers need to be kept watered and preserved. Keep furniture away from all vents and be sure to maintain all heating and air conditioning systems.

Even if all workplaces have detailed actions that need to be taken during the course of all work days in order to be productive, don't ever underestimate the influence that the correct office design and building maintenance can have on the individuals in charge of completing each duty. Whether working in a home office or a large corporate building, office interiors are a key aspect to building the atmosphere that best helps bring in the profits everyone is worried with.

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