Shopping for office furniture requires careful considerations that go beyond aesthetics. You have to consider the furniture’s functionality, comfort, and flexibility to ensure a productive work environment. You should also consider your workers’ safety as you make each decision. Here are some mistakes you should avoid when shopping for office furniture.
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Shopping Without a Vision in Mind
Many people buy office furniture impulsively without taking the time to think about their future growth and needs. Whether you are shopping for an office desk, chair, palio, or cabinet, rushing through the decision can leave you with regrets in years to come.
Start by accurately assessing your needs and expected growth before the selection process. Analyze what is good and bad about what you already have so that you can make the necessary improvements. Choosing timeless over what is trendy will be more helpful in the long run.
Not Considering Workers’ Comfort.
Not considering employees’ comfort when shopping for office furniture is a detrimental mistake. If you find that workers like to spend more time working from outside rather than behind their office desks, it may be because the furniture is uncomfortable.
Comfort equals productivity, and it is wise to consider ergonomic aspects that enhance comfort like adjustable seats, armrests, contoured seats, lumbar backrest supports, etc. These can improve your employees’ comfort, which translates to higher productivity.
Choosing the Wrong Fabrics
Have you ever visited an office and noted that the chairs have stains on the headrests? This is one of the things you want to avoid when shopping for office furniture. Cleanliness in an office matter and a clean working environment enhance productivity.
Wipe clean vinyl is an ideal choice where stains are more prevalent as some can even withstand cleaning with bleach products to eliminate bacteria. If you need furniture that can withstand heavy use, opt for engineered fabrics like Crypton. You might consider individually treated fabrics that resist moisture, bacteria, and stains.
Leather remains the most desirable fabric for executive chairs, conference rooms, and guest rooms since it is easy to wipe and clean and provides the ultimate aesthetics. Mesh fabrics have also gained popularity, especially in task chairs, and the mesh allows airflow, ensuring employees stay cool and comfortable for long periods.
Considering Price Over Value.
There is a wide range of office furniture with different price tags depending on the quality. The worst thing you can do is prioritize price over value. You should consider the quality of the furniture and expected lifespan compared to the cost of ownership. Investing in quality furniture is always worth it in the long run because it can last for many years. If you are on a tight budget, shopping for a few pieces that offer value and add more over time is better.
Not Keeping Technology in Mind.
The office environment has changed drastically over the years. One of the notable changes is introducing technology in the office, including computers, laptops, printers, biometrics, mobile phone chargers, and other task lighters. Therefore shop for office furniture with technology in mind, for instance, conference room desks that can accommodate video meetings.