Businesses invest in many ways to keep employees comfortable and productive. Activities like social events, health seminars, and ergonomic workstations are a few of the more popular employee productivity strategies. But businesses often overlook one key area that can profoundly impact employee productivity: office furniture.
Office furniture may not seem the most crucial factor in employee productivity, but it can make a big difference. The right furniture can help employees stay comfortable and focused, while the wrong furniture can lead to discomfort and distractions. However, it is more about what companies do with furniture than their purchase options. Every item might be comfortable initially, but it will deteriorate in the long run. Here are a few tips to help you in the process.
Procure High-Quality Furniture
First, always purchase high-quality office furniture. It may be tempting to save money by buying lower-priced options, but this is a false economy. Cheap furniture will not stand up to the rigors of daily use and will have to get replaced much sooner. It means that you will end up spending more in the long run. Only buy office furniture from reputable dealers offering a product warranty.
Second, make sure that you choose the right furniture for your employees. Not all employees have the exact needs, so it is essential to select furniture that meets the specific requirements of each employee. For example, some employees may require adjustable desks and chairs to accommodate their height, while others may need furniture designed for ergonomic comfort.
Third, make sure to test out the furniture before you buy it. It may seem like an obvious step, but companies overlook it. Always sit in the chair and use the desk for a few minutes to feel its comfort and utility.
Keep in mind that office furniture is an investment. Like all investments, there is a risk involved. Be prepared to lose some money if the furniture does not meet your expectations or if it does not last as long as you had hoped.
Cleaning Priority
After you have procured the office furniture, you must keep it clean. Dust, dirt, and spills can quickly damage furniture and make it look old. Create a cleaning schedule and assign specific days for each employee to clean their work area.
Leather furniture, however, requires extra attention. Leather is a natural material that must get regularly conditioned to stay supple and prevent cracking. Use a quality leather conditioner at least once a month to keep the furniture looking its best. Unfortunately, most companies do not have the equipment and resources necessary to maintain leather furniture. Fortunately, you can find reliable leather cleaning services. They have the experience and expertise to properly clean and condition your leather furniture, preventing any permanent damage.
Avoid Unnecessary Costs
Another way to get the most out of your office furniture investment is to avoid unnecessary costs. For example, do not buy furniture you do not need just because it is on sale. Only purchase what you need and will use.
Also, do not be afraid to negotiate with furniture dealers. Many companies offer discounts if you purchase bulk or agree to pay cash instead of using credit. Be sure to ask about any available discounts before making a purchase.
Finally, do not forget about used office furniture. You can find excellent deals on used furniture if you know where to look. Check classified ads, online auction sites, and office supply stores for the best deals.
Be sure to inspect any used furniture thoroughly before buying it. Make sure it is still in good condition and will last several years.
Repair or Replace
Even with the best care, office furniture will eventually show wear and tear. When this happens, you have two options: repair or replace.
If the damage is minor, such as a loose screw or a small stain, you can usually repair it yourself. However, if the damage is more significant, such as a cracked frame or ripped upholstery, you will need to either replace the furniture or hire a professional to repair it.
Repairing office furniture can be expensive, so replacing it is often more cost-effective. When deciding whether to repair or replace, consider furniture age, the severity of the damage, and the cost of repairs.
Do not discard the old pieces if you decide to replace the furniture. Someone else may be able to use them, so donate them to a local charity or sell them online.
Conclusion
Furnishing office space is not rocket science, but it does require some thought and effort. Office furniture is critical for employee comfort and productivity. By following these tips, you can create a productive and comfortable working environment for your employees.
