Support
(587) 745-0366
Your workspace is your second home when you’re a business owner. On average, you might spend more time in your workspace than you do outside of it, which is a compelling reason to pay close attention to how you set up both the design or your workspace and the technology you use there. For example, is your workspace set up to support productivity, or is it merely functional?
To help you determine which aspects of your workplace might need some improvements, here are five essential elements that should be considered priorities:
- Power supply and outlets
- Secure, powerful internet and networks
- Computers and hardware
- Servers
- Furniture and lighting
The Importance of Ergonomics in the Workplace
What is the purpose of ergonomics in the workplace? The goal is to create an office space that fits you and the tasks involved in your job. Ergonomic requirements will differ for each employee depending on the task they perform, their physical needs, and whether they share a workspace or work from home.
It’s important to keep ergonomics in mind when you design or update your office because having the right furniture, technology, and lighting can increase productivity and make your employees happier. Studies have shown that when you design your workspace with your well-being in mind, you can significantly reduce or prevent several health problems, such as:
- Headaches or eye strain
- Neck and back pain
- Bursitis or tendon problems from repetitive tasks
Having a space to work in that is comfortable and inviting will help you focus better and feel less stressed. Focusing on ergonomics for your home or shared office can save you stress and money in the long run.
How to Assess Your Workspace Needs
When you assess these five elements in your workspace, there are four questions you should ask to determine what your needs and the needs of your team are.
- How many employees do you have?
- Are they working from home or in a shared space?
- Do any of your team members have specific accessibility requirements?
- What are your workspace needs now and in the near future?
Power Supply and Outlets
The supply of electricity to your workspace is essential for modern business. Computers, monitors, printers, charging banks, TVs, coffee makers, lamps, and more all need to be plugged into an outlet. How many outlets and what type of plugin you need will depend on how many employees are in the space and what devices you use. Older homes and office spaces often have fewer outlets per room. Fewer outlets can lead to an over-reliance on extension cords and power banks, increasing tripping hazards and fire risks.
If your business is highly digital, you might want to consider hiring an electrician to install more outlets to meet your needs. If you decide to invest in the availability of power outlets in your workspace, keep in mind your future growth goals and make a plan to accommodate possible changes in the short and long-term future.
Secure, Powerful Internet and Other Networks
A modern business needs the internet and mobile networks to function. As a business owner, you’ll want to ensure you have a reliable internet connection both in your shared workspaces as well as for your employees who are working remotely. You might need to shop around for the best service provider or ask your network of business owners for recommendations.
Once you find your ideal internet provider, the configuration of your network security is also essential. The private data of your business needs protection from cyberthreats as well as data loss. If you don’t have a dedicated IT support person on staff, you might want to consider hiring a professional IT firm.
Computers and Hardware
The tools you use for your work are an essential part of your workspace. Just as a mechanic needs a specific list of tools in their garage and a chef needs a fully equipped kitchen, your office space needs to include the right technology for you to perform your job. Shopping for suitable computer models, monitors, printers, and other devices may require a bit of research, either by consulting a buying guide or working with an expert.
When you find computers and accessories that complement the work of you and your team, you’ll be able to work better and easier. For example, a digital design firm may prefer to invest in Apple products, while an accounting firm might invest in PCs. The hardware you choose is entirely up to you and your business needs.
Servers
In collaboration with computers and hardware, servers are a crucial component of your workspace set-up. Whether you are a small business needing cloud services or a larger firm investing in your own servers, IT professionals can consult or monitor data backup services and storage management. IT experts can also help make recommendations on infrastructure design and management.
Furniture and Lighting
Another area where you can dramatically improve your workspace is with furniture and lighting. First, describe what tasks you perform, the type of space you’re working in, and any specific accessibility needs you or your staff might have. Next, you can spend some time researching your options for ergonomic office furniture, such as desks that adjust to various positions for different individual heights or whether you choose to sit or stand while you work. You can also consult a lighting expert to determine whether your office needs bright white lights or better with softer overhead lighting.
The design of your workspace can have a significant impact on your mood and physical well-being while working.
Your Cybersecurity and IT Management Experts in Edmonton, Alberta
Are you updating your shared workspace or home office? Do you need professional advice for digital storage solutions or cloud computing? Our IT experts are here to help. Contact our team for any of your IT questions. We’re happy to help businesses in Edmonton and surrounding areas.
