Introduction to office cubicles
Commonly known as “systems furniture” or “modular systems workspaces” by dealers, office cubicles sometimes have a less-than-stellar reputation among workers. Often viewed by employees as constricting and impersonal, they actually serve a number of valuable business purposes.
And now, with modern architecture and design, workstations can be infused with a high degree of “cool,” promoting health, happiness and productivity in any office space.
A brief history
Cubicles enable your company to house a large number of employees, maximizing the extra space that’s taken up by traditional offices. Although a cubicle system does expose workers to additional noise, it dramatically limits the volume in comparison to an open-air floor plan. In doing so, you can divide large, noisy office spaces into private work areas and group individuals by department to further promote efficiency. This grouping also provides an added benefit: enhanced cooperation among employees.
Originally designed by architect Robert Propst, the office cubicle layout was known as an “action office” for its ability to promote a free-flowing exchange of ideas. Propst discovered that a substantial portion of the collaborative innovation that took place in a traditional office occurred when people were walking around or using the restroom.
By removing the doors and floor-to-ceiling walls, Propst found he could boost productivity while still providing enough privacy for tasks requiring concentration – an insight that would alter the interior design of office buildings throughout the world. In fact, it’s estimated that more than 40 million Americans are currently spending their workday in this type of office environment.
New office cubicles can transform an office
Thanks to the flexibility and modularity of today’s cubicles, you can mix and match a wide range of layouts and extras to provide all your employees with the comfort and workspace they need. But the process of locating, evaluating, and choosing cubicles can get a bit tricky. After all, it’s not the type of purchase you make everyday. That’s why it’s best to work with a vendor who specializes in quality systems and can help you to design a cubicle floor plan that’s appropriate for your space, business, and employees.
If you’re starting from scratch and furnishing an entire office, you may want to purchase your systems furniture separately from desks, conference tables, and other furnishings. In fact, these pieces can often be found through different vendors and, in doing so, provide a far greater selection of colors and styles. But for hardware compatibility and cost-savings you should definitely buy all your cubicles and accessories from a single source.
This BuyerZone Systems Furniture Buyer's Guide will teach you what to look for and help you choose a systems furniture vendor. Once you have a general idea of what you need, we'll put you in touch with office cubicle vendors in your area - free of charge!
