The average desk worker or entrepreneur spends approximately eight to ten hours a day in their offices. Whether they’re aware or not, these personal workspaces have an impact on their health, wellness, mood, comfort, and productivity level. An unsafe, disorganized, or inefficient working environment can lead to injuries, increased health risks, lower morale, and decreased productivity. As such, employers and business professionals are encouraged to cultivate a workstation that’s comfortable and functional. Continue reading for top considerations.
Lighting
The amount and type of light in a workspace can impact your physical and emotional well-being. Whether the light is too bright or too dim, it can lead to eyestrain, headaches, stress, fatigue, and depression. If possible, desks should be set up near a window or in a room with lots of natural light as it is best for your health, mood, and productivity. If that’s not an option, invest in lightbulbs and fixtures that are easy on the eyes but efficient enough for productivity.
Temperature
Trying to get work done in a space that’s too hot or too cold isn’t ideal. Installing a programmable thermostat in your home office or commercial building can help regulate the temperatures keeping it at a comfortable level. If the property is older and less efficient, weathering the space can help keep the temperatures under control. Ideally, keeping the room at about 65-77 degrees, depending on the weather, is the best compromise.
Color
Did you know that color has a psychological impact on people? For instance, bright colors like red, yellow, and orange are high-energy colors that can boost energy levels and enhance creativity. On the contrary, soft colors like blue and green evoke a more relaxing and calming vibe. While the choice of colors for your office will vary, sticking to soothing or traditional wall colors with brighter colors as accents is recommended for mood and productivity.
Office Furniture
Every workstation needs office furniture. When selecting a desk, it should be tall enough for someone to type on the computer without complication. Their arms should be parallel to the floor, and their feet should touch the ground. If ergonomics are a factor, a standing desk is ideal so employees can switch between sitting and standing throughout the day. When selecting a chair, it should fit comfortably under the desk leaving room for the employee’s legs. The office chair should also have cushions to support proper posture.
Storage And Organization
A disorganized and cluttered workstation leads to increased anxiety and slowed productivity. Rectifying the problem is as simple as investing in the proper storage and organization of products. Shelves and filing cabinets are ideal for storing files, books, and office equipment like phones and printers. Desk organizers help workers to keep basic office supplies and paperwork in order.
Tech And Accessories
These days, no business functions without the use of some technology. Employees often need desktops, laptops, and tablets to complete their jobs. When setting up a workstation, it’s important to remember technology and related accessories. The desk needs to have enough space to hold a monitor. The workspace should also have enough electrical outlets and ports to utilize and charge these devices.
Personalization
What makes a workstation special is the small details occupants add to it. Whether it’s indoor plants and family photos or awards and artwork, it enhances their mood, comfort, and productivity levels when a worker is allowed to personalize the space. Once the factors above have been considered, it will enable some flexibility and creativity for workstation decor. Everything from photographs and figurines to radios and aromatherapy diffusers can enhance the workspace.
When you spend hours every day in the workplace, factors like health, wellness, safety, comfort, and functionality must be considered. Employers or entrepreneurs looking to enhance workplace morale and productivity start with having an efficient workstation. Ensure that every office has proper lighting, comfortable temperatures, cheerful colors, ergonomic-friendly furniture, adequate storage, technology, and personalized decor for optimal results.