7 avoidable office planning mistakes

Where else do we spend as much time each day as at our workplace?
Probably hardly any.

For this reason, workplace design plays an important role. Even small details contribute to increasing efficiency and well-being – or conversely, even small mistakes can have a very negative impact.

We'll show you the 7 most common mistakes made in office planning and furnishing, and how you can avoid them.

7 avoidable office planning mistakes

Open space is the magic word when looking for ways to create workspaces for as many employees as possible in a small area. However, for optimal collaboration, the basic principles of this concept should be followed. Otherwise, employee motivation and performance will quickly suffer.

Mistake 1: Not involving the employees

Inform and involve your employees in the upcoming office planning process early on. All employees must have the opportunity to express their wishes and needs, as changing your work environment is a significant change.
The more positive the attitude of each individual department and each individual employee, the more successful the post-implementation phase will be.

Mistake 2: Not leaving any "free" space

Employees and departments should approach teamwork and project work with motivation, inspiring and supporting one another. This means that shared, communicative workspaces are needed for exchange. How many and what size these spaces should be, whether open or closed – discussions with your employees will help clarify exactly that.

Click here for a free quick guide + checklist for office planning

Mistake 3: Underestimating ergonomics

Don't skimp on ergonomic workplace equipment. Provide your employees with height-adjustable desks and good office chairs. This investment in their health will definitely pay off for you.

Mistake 4: Insufficient storage space

It's very difficult to keep an office tidy if it doesn't have enough storage space. Therefore, every desk should have a designated spot for frequently used documents and paperwork. A messy office doesn't make a good impression.

Click here for a free quick guide + checklist for office planning

Error 5: Noise and Disturbances

Open-plan offices are often associated with unpleasant noise levels and a lack of privacy. Phone calls here, loud discussions there. Often, there's no visual barrier, and walkways are too close to workstations.

What prerequisites and requirements exist in your company?
Position the items accordingly. Sideboards and highboards are suitable as room dividers, simultaneously serve as storage space and help reduce noise.

An overly spartan office is not inviting. A nice plant within sight also contributes enormously to well-being.

Plants also create a pleasant and healthy indoor climate. If plants are lacking in the workplace, the air conditioning or heating system quickly makes the air feel too dry.

Mistake 6: Lack of recovery opportunities

Those who work hard and with focus also need to be able to switch off occasionally to recharge. Find out what your employees want most.

Conclusion

Planning a new office isn't particularly difficult, especially for smaller businesses or when only minor changes are needed. A floor plan, a little experience, and enthusiasm for planning and employee integration should suffice. For more complex projects, it's advisable to use a planning service. Furniture manufacturers and retailers sometimes offer this as a free service. Professional planning offices will create detailed concepts for you, including lighting and acoustics planning, right up to the documentation required for tenders. This comprehensive service, of course, comes at a price.