What are the Different Types of Office Layouts?

The ideal office layout skyrockets productivity and enhances communication between staff. In the most effective layout, all space is utilized. While office managers are flooded with varying office layout options, the most popular remain so for a reason. Here are the best office layouts.

A functional office layout should meet certain standards. One is to make use of all available floor space. Managers will be able to supervise employees and control their workforce. Communication is facilitated between departments and provides provisions for future expansion.

Employees, too, benefit significantly when they work in the right type of office layout. A wholesome environment increases workers’ feelings of comfort and safety. Staff who work on confidential projects can work in privacy. The right office layout is disturbance-free from external noises.

1. Open-Plan Layout

Most popular with tech startups, creative firms, and growing companies, the open-plan layout enhances collaboration between team members. Walls and separations are not installed between workstations. Desks are stacked up side by side, or work-tables may facilitate meetings between multiple staff.

The benefits of the open-plan layout include reduced cost and saved space. The flexible seating arrangements allow for easy reconfiguration. Disadvantages also exist in an open-play layout: Distractions are constant, and some staff may feel anxious about the lack of privacy.

2. Private Office Layout

Mostly reserved for executives, managers, and other upper-level staff, the private office layout is sealed off entirely from the rest of the office floor. The interior walls reach up to the ceilings, providing a cellular style workstation. Sometimes multiple managers share a private office.

A private office layout is suitable for confidential projects and discussions. Senior managers enjoy a comfortable layout that facilitates the ability to concentrate and focus. The cons are that this isolating type of layout is uneconomical and makes it difficult to supervise employees.

3. Team-Cluster Layout

A popular office layout for team-based work, the team-cluster layout or team-oriented office layout, gives groups of employees plenty of collaboration opportunities. Depending on the nature of the work, staff share a single table for meetings, discussions, and a range of employee interactions.

A major advantage of the team-cluster layout is the minimized need for meeting rooms. Team building is strengthened between employees. Workflow is streamlined and productivity is boosted. Drawbacks are that staff are prone to noises, distractions, and a lack of individual spaces.

4. Cubicle Office Layout

The most cost-efficient layout is the cubicle office layout. Workspaces are separated by partitioning walls forming the shape of a cube. Oftentimes, the cubicle layout is combined with private offices for senior staff as well as built-in meeting rooms. This layout remains popular across corporate offices.

Equality is promoted in the cubicle office layout since all employees receive an equal amount of private space. Staff are able to focus without distractions. A large area can hold multiple workspaces. The downsides are that workers have fewer opportunities to interact, and the layout requires more space.

5. Low-Partition Office Layout

The modernized version of the cubicle layout is the low-partition office layout. This type of office design features cubicle walls that are lower in height than the partitions in standard cubicles. The low-partition office layout, in effect, fosters collaboration between employees.

Another benefit of the low-partition office layout is how it enhances the work environment. Lower partitions allow more natural light to enter the cubicles. However, this design can make chitchat frequent and distract employees from work. Privacy may also be lacking.

6. Hybrid Office Layout

Fully customizable, the hybrid office layout blends the pleasing aspects of multiple types of office layouts into one. This design is the newest of all available styles and is the ideal solution to the disadvantages prominent in open offices and cubicles.

The hybrid office layout facilitates a dynamic work environment. Office managers can mix and match any of the abovementioned layouts, creating a versatile space. For example, an innovative office design may include a few cubicles, open-plan spaces, and co-working areas.

The benefits of a hybrid office layout are many. Being customizable is the biggest draw. Employees enjoy more control over where and how they work, thereby contributing to their work satisfaction. Mood improves in a hybrid layout, boosting productivity. More noise, however, can lead to distractions.

Office layouts come in diverse shapes and sizes. Choosing the right one that suits the needs of a particular company culture is vital to ensuring optimum productivity and employee well-being. Consider the workplace culture, number of staff, and workflow when evaluating potential office layouts.

For some businesses, optimizing the workspace may mean simply moving desks and installing a few partitions. Other companies may need to embrace a holistic approach and carefully design the office based on the needs of their employees and the business.

Transforming an office layout to one that better suits your company’s needs may require professional assistance from Chicago Office Movers. Our experienced crews are available to move bulky office furniture and equipment so that you and your team work in a space that meets your needs.

When you are relocating to a new office altogether, Chicago Office Movers will make that important transition happen as seamlessly as possible. Our commercial movers are licensed, background-checked, and trained to protect your valuable office equipment and deliver professional service.

We fully protect office belongings with sturdy boxes and crates. Our climate-controlled trucks feature lift gates and air-ride suspensions to further safeguard fragile items during transport to the new corporate location. Convenient short- and long-term storage options and packing services are available.

Chicago Office Movers has successfully moved large corporations, like Alcatel Lucent, as well as smaller companies. Our dedicated office movers have safely transported cubicles, IT systems, electronics, artwork, antiques, and office furniture. We’ll provide you with the same excellent quality service.

Whether you are planning a local, long-distance, or international corporate relocation, choose Chicago Office Movers. We provide comprehensive moving services tailored especially for commercial businesses.

Call our Chicago office at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO) for an estimate and join the ranks of our satisfied customers.

The office is where the majority of a company’s success happens. Colleagues brainstorm and collaborate, making the workspace an important part of productivity. But when the size of the office seems inadequate, it’s important to get the most out of it.

When planning the office layout, do so well in advance of moving in. This step saves the company time and money and simplifies the task of choosing office furniture and other essentials for the new office space. The layout should ideally meet the demands of how the team operates.

1. Foster Collaboration and Privacy

If office employees frequently collaborate, brainstorm, or meet with clients, then the layout should encourage these important work activities. Prioritize comfort. Cushiony couches and ergonomic chairs put staff members at ease, allowing them to focus on contributing to the discussions.

Not every office worker performs well in a team environment. Private and semi-private rooms are beneficial for staff members who are unable to focus in large groups. When planning the office, incorporate areas that feature both shared spaces as well as private areas.

Building privacy pods, for instance, is an opportunity for managers to get the most out of their office space. These dedicated personal spaces can be used for activities other than work, such as making phone calls or reading. The pods give employees private time while being at the office.

Take into account the unique needs of the office staff when attempting to maximize the office space. Give the employees different options for where they’d like to work. Keeping all members of the team happy helps them stay engaged and productive throughout the workday.

2. Use Functional, Movable Furniture

Furniture and its layout should also encourage ongoing brainstorming sessions. The furniture must be plentiful so that all office staff are accommodated. Arrange the couches in a circle to foster the idea of equal exchange and give everyone the ability to easily view their collaborators.

The aesthetic appeal of office furniture can create the desired mood for any type of company, whether it is one that is traditional or fun. However, the functionality of office desks and chairs is equally vital. Movable furniture offers office managers flexibility, while enhancing the office space.

Today’s employees require flexibility. Long gone are the days when fixed furniture overwhelmed the office. Nowadays, flexible furniture, such as ergonomic chairs, better meet the needs of employees, who can move the furniture around as needed. Plus, movable furniture adds extra space to the office.

3. Maximize Storage

An organized workspace is achieved through shelving and storage units. In fact, each office employee should be provided with a personal storage unit. Pedestals, for instance, can be tucked underneath the desk, thereby saving valuable office space. Mobile pedestals are not only useful but can be relocated.

Shelves installed above each desk give office staff easy access to everyday supplies. Dry-erase boards can be hung to communicate important messages. Wall-mounted shelves keep reference books and fun office knickknacks, like photos, within easy reach while not taking up floor space.

Personal storage systems help keep desks neat and uncluttered. An efficient space promotes organization in employees as they work. Desk drawers can be utilized to store pens and highlighters if the staff frequently use paper; similarly, hanging wall pockets keeps supplies within reach.

When optimizing storage spaces within the office, keep in mind their visual appeal. Some office storage options are large and bulky, and others are small and slim. Choose storage systems that complement the office layout, while also meeting the needs of the team.

4. Light Up the Office

Lighting and ventilation are essential when large numbers of employees share a work space. Both features are important to enhancing employee productivity, even going so far as to reduce the number of staff illnesses. A healthier work environment can be achieved by installing LED lighting.

While artificial lighting helps staff members work comfortably, natural lighting is equally beneficial. Employees enjoy having an outside view; so, when possible, choose an office space with windows on both sides. Natural lighting and adequate vents improve productivity without consuming space.

5. Choose Simple Designs

Bold colors, fun patterns, and outlandish artwork can distract even the most dedicated employees. Rather than cause stress and frustration to staff members trying to focus in small groups or independently, choose a neutral design to enhance the office space.

A neutral design features a limited number of colors and patterns and minimizes distractions. After all, it’s difficult to tune out the ostentatious art on the walls when trying to focus on work tasks. A minimalistic aesthetic in the office keeps office staff calm while working and boosts productivity.

Making the most of an office space can be done, even when the office is limited in size. But if you are planning to move your company to a bigger facility or considering downsizing to a smaller one, you’ll need the expertise of the commercial movers at Chicago Office Movers.

Our moving service has a long history of excellence. We’ve moved renowned customers, like Northwestern University and Alcatel Lucent, and we provide the same level of superior customer service to every single customer who schedules a corporate move with us.

The unionized moving crews at Chicago Office Movers are top-notch—trained, licensed, and background-checked—to ensure your peace of mind. We pack and unpack all office goods carefully, whether they are heavy office furniture, delicate artwork, sensitive electronics, IT systems, or fragile equipment.

We load all office items onto our climate-controlled trucks, featuring lift gates and air-ride suspensions, that fully protect your goods. Our customers receive tracking information to monitor the progress of the office relocation. Short- and long-term storage options are also available.

While Chicago Office Movers provides high-quality customer care, our trusted office moving services remain affordable. We proudly help Chicagoland businesses of all sizes relocate with success. Check out our multiple five-star ratings and give us a call today for a free estimate.

Call us at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO) for a free estimate regarding our office moving services.

Corporate relocations are on the rise as hybrid work increases and labor shortages mount. Any major business move requires extensive, strategic planning. While planning an office move, tread carefully, as making these ten common mistakes can increase the stress factor of the relocation.

Companies move for numerous reasons. Some may find the talent pool attractive in larger cities, like Chicago, and prioritize moving there. Other major corporations find urban areas rife with crime and struggle to hire skilled professionals, therefore moving out of the big cities.

Businesses may also expand their product or service offerings, which necessitates additional workspaces and larger production facilities. On the other hand, companies may have plans to downsize and seek a smaller, more economical building in which to continue business operations.

Whatever the reason for relocating the business, it is not an easy decision to make. Nevertheless, taking the company to a location where opportunities abound can boost employee morale. Greener pastures can be on the horizon for companies on the move. But it’s important to avoid these moving mistakes.

Mistake 1: Insufficient planning

Planning well in advance of the expected relocation date is critical to the success of the move. Set aside a few weeks to involve employees in the move and keep moving costs down. Assign dependable employees a role to facilitate specific parts of the move.

Mistake 2: Not taking inventory

Costly mistakes can arise when businesses fail to take an accurate inventory of the goods in the office. Without an inventory list, staff will struggle to ensure the right goods are moved correctly. Record all items moving to the new office as well as their locations in the new building.

Record the conditions of the items on the inventory list. The condition of high-end equipment should especially be noted. If the pricey equipment is damaged during the move, the business owner can hold the commercial mover accountable and streamline insurance claims.

Mistake 3: Failing to include IT staff

IT systems are crucial to today’s businesses. Setup of technology equipment will take time and advanced planning, especially since the electrical, network, and space factors could be different in the new office. Ensure the IT leaders see the layout in the new building beforehand and have time to make adaptations.

Mistake 4: Using the wrong moving supplies

Moving boxes come in all sizes. Choosing boxes that are too small or too large can lead to unwanted consequences. Packing small items in an extremely large box that allows significant wiggle room can result in damage to the items. Pick moving boxes with the right size to ensure protection.

Mistake 5: Moving unnecessary goods

Ideally, before the move, a business will donate, sell, or discard office goods that will not be used in the new building. The mistake occurs when this important step is forgotten. Businesses will pay more to move more items and spend time packing items that generate little-to-no revenue.

Mistake 6: Not insuring the move

While a company may have existing insurance, the coverage may fail to cover all the office belongings that will be transported during the move. Accidents are a reality of any move, so it’s necessary to obtain additional coverage from the current insurer or from the moving company.

Mistake 7: Not labeling the boxes

During the flurry of packing, labeling the boxes may be forgotten. Since organization is the key to a successful relocation, label the boxes owned by each employee, the box numbers that correspond to the inventory list, and where the boxes go in the new building.

Mistake 8: Forgetting to turn on utilities

Downtime is expensive for companies. Prevent unproductivity in the new office by setting up the utilities in the new building well in advance. Schedule the internet service provider before the IT equipment is delivered. All operational functions should be in place by moving day.

Mistake 9: Hiring an unprofessional mover

Commercial movers with experience understand how to handle the logistics of a major office move. Business owners who aim for a seamless move are advised to obtain quotes from several moving companies, assessing factors, such as availability, affordability, and industry experience.

Reading reviews is especially valuable for learning about other customers’ experiences with a prospective commercial mover. Choose a mover with the desired qualities. Finding and hiring a reputable mover will eliminate the bulk of stress that comes with relocating the business.

Mistake 10: Not communicating moving requirements

Special requirements may be expected when moving to a new building. The commercial mover should be aware of the availability of an accessible elevator, stairs at the origin and destination or access only through a narrow alleyway. Communicate the logistic of the move and avoid costly surprises.

Avoiding these top ten mistakes can reduce the stress that accompanies a major office move. Another important factor that will provide your business with a seamless relocation is hiring an affordable, highly rated and locally based commercial mover, like Chicago Office Movers.

Work with Chicago Office Movers and streamline your corporate relocation. Our moving crews are unionized, licensed, and experienced to deliver maximum customer satisfaction and the most stress-free move possible. Your items are secure in the hands of our background-checked movers.

Our moving trucks are also designed to protect office goods, whether you are moving down the street or across state lines. Each truck features a climate-controlled space, lift gates, and air-ride suspensions. Business customers utilize a tracking system to track their goods as they move.

Chicago Office Movers provides comprehensive moving services. As a leading office mover, we offer not only packing and unpacking services, but also short- and long-term storage options, insurance and service contracts, sturdy boxes, and professional help with planning your office relocation.

Whether you plan to move delicate antiques, fragile IT systems or bulky office furniture, Chicago Office Movers has the experience to make your relocation dreams a reality. Choose us for a budget-friendly move.

Contact our Chicago office today at 312-244-2246 for an upcoming local, long-distance or international move.

Relocating to greener pastures requires a star-studded announcement, one that gives current and potential customers news about where the business is headed. Let's face it, announcing a relocation of your business can be stressful. There are many things to consider before sending out an official statement, including the effect it will have on your business and clients, employees, vendors, and partners.

Announcing the relocation of the business can be done in several ways, and here are a few that deserve mention. By following these steps, you can reach out to your customers, clients, vendors, and partners in an effective way to let them know about the move and explain any possible changes that may happen.

1. Notify employees

Employees should hear about the relocation first. After all, employees are the backbone of the business, keeping it running and functioning in the most optimal way possible. The staff should ideally hear about the move at the same time, such as at a breakfast or lunch meeting.

Let the staff know the reason behind the move, whether it is to upgrade the facility or be closer to a talent pool. Provide a physical document listing important details about the move: location address, move date, moving company contact person, and instructions for how to prepare.

Engaging employees helps boost morale. Show them how the new location will benefit them; perhaps the new workspace will be closer to their homes, public transportation, or restaurants. If the move is long distance, give the staff details of their relocation package.

2. Inform customers and business contacts

Letting customers know about the new business location can be done in a few ways. An email newsletter can inform them of the new address, reasons for the move, hours of operation, and other pertinent information; however, emails can get lost in spam folders or accidentally deleted.

A surefire way to notify existing customers and business contacts is to mail them a postcard containing all the relevant details, including a note about doing business in the new location. In order to cover all the bases, send both a virtual announcement and a physical one.

Be sure to contact VIP clients directly, before making a public announcement of the business relocation. Personally calling important clients who have made large purchases shows them how much their business is valued and that a continued business relationship is appreciated.

Announcement letters should contain the following: the new business address with a map of the location, hours of operation and phone number (even if they stay the same), the company website and email addresses, and contact information in case clients have questions.

A few business clients may be nervous about the company’s upcoming move. It can be reassuring to them to offer the contact information, such as email and phone number, of a designated move coordinator who will respond to their concerns and answer any questions.

3. Update the company website

All digital properties should be utilized to announce the company relocation. Create an attractive banner announcing the move and position it on the company’s homepage. Include the move date and a positive reason for moving. Keep the banner on the website for at least six months.

4. Write blogs announcing the move

Well before the move date, post a blog containing details about the upcoming move. In the blog, emphasize how the move will benefit clients instead of writing about what the company is going through. Clients want the security of knowing the business will be there for them after the move.

Rather than post just one blog, write multiple blogs about the upcoming relocation. Use the blogs as an opportunity to drum up excitement about what’s ahead for the business and how the innovations will benefit customers. Blogs can even be utilized to recharge the company brand.

5. Utilize social media

The eye-catching banner announcing the move on the company website should also be posted on the company’s social media sites, which may include Facebook, Twitter, and any other online platforms. As on the website, the banner should remain on the social sites for six months.

6. Advertise

Radio and print ads announcing the relocation should only be utilized if the company has a proven track record for reaching customers through these media outlets. If choosing print media ads, keep them running with information about the new business location for at least six months.

7. Keep communications positive

While the days and weeks surrounding the relocation can be stressful, it’s important that all announcements regarding the move be kept positive. An optimistic tone is essential even if the move is unexpected, undesired, or is prompted by less than lackluster circumstances.

Take the opportunity to add to the announcements how customers will benefit. Advantages that can come with a relocation include upgraded facilities or new service offerings. Consider offering special promotions either before the move occurs or after it is complete.

Following the above checklist ensures that everyone involved with the business, from employees to clients and partners, are well aware of the upcoming move and fully prepared. Relocating companies can be assured they will not lose their valued existing customers.

Moving to a New Office?

Before announcing the move, company leaders must hire a reputable mover to handle the relocation from start to finish. One commercial mover that business leaders count on is Chicago Office Movers. We are equipped with skilled movers and protective equipment to ensure a seamless move.

Our licensed and background-checked moving crews are experienced in handling all aspects of a corporate relocation. We will plan the move as well as pack, load, and unpack all company goods safely and efficiently. Boxes and crates are provided to protect fragile items.

Chicago Office Movers’ trucks are climate controlled and feature lift gates and air-ride suspensions to fully safeguard all company property. Our trucks are equipped with tracking equipment, so customers can track the move throughout the process. Rest assured that your items will be handled with care.

Our long list of satisfied clients, like Northwestern University and Alcatel Lucent, speak to our commitment to excellence. Leaders of companies both large and small find our budget-friendly and efficient office relocation services to be exactly what they are looking for.

Whether your upcoming relocation is local, long distance or international, choose Chicago Office Movers. We offer comprehensive moving services, from storage options to insurance and service contracts. Call our Chicago, Illinois, office for a free estimate and take your business to greener pastures.

Contact us for your upcoming local, long distance or international move at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO).

Business is booming, and a quaint office in a bustling business community is in the works. While seemingly straightforward, renting an office requires more than picking a prime location and signing on the dotted line. Rather, first-time office renters are encouraged to consider these important tips.

Renting an office space adds legitimacy to the business. The ideal office space is one that gives the business plenty of room to grow. The right office space also promotes the brand to potential visitors, customers, and partners. Employees feel proud and productive working in an accommodating space.

By the time the decision to rent an office is made, it’s clear that the space is necessary. A home office, virtual office, or coworking space do not meet business demands. Rather, a physical location gives the business a verified Google listing and increases visibility in local search results.

Tip 1: Create a budget

Every business investment begins with a budget and renting an office space is no different. Be flexible when creating a budget for an office space. Compromising the quality of an office space for the sake of staying under budget is not recommended. Overspending is equally important to avoid.

Renting a low-priced office space in a building that is falling apart sends the message to potential customers and visitors that the business is struggling. On the other hand, spending lavishly on a building space leads to unwanted financial stresses. Prepare a flexible budget and stay within it.

Tip 2: Determine space requirements

Companies have different needs when it comes to space requirements. Geographic location, industry, and the company itself play major roles in how much space a business requires. An entrepreneur will find a private office sufficient, while an enterprise company may need large workspaces that accommodate hundreds of employees.

Factors, like future growth, influence the office space requirements. Consider whether or not the business is expected to grow during the course of the lease. A company that is projected to expand must determine how many square feet per person will be necessary in the next few years.

Tip 3: Assess included amenities

An ideal office space caters to not only guests but to the employees working onsite. A fully functional space allows staff members the opportunity to be productive. Examples of amenities include fiber internet, onsite management, copiers and scanners, on-demand conference rooms, and mail service.

A break room or small kitchen will be one to which employees can run to for a cup of coffee or a snack. Expect productivity to increase when staff members are not forced to make trips to the local coffeehouse whenever they need a jolt of caffeine.

Tip 4: Consider accessibility

When eyeing potential office spaces, consider how far employees will have to commute to work. Or, choose an office that is close to public transportation. An onsite bike rack may be appreciated by staff who bike to work. Employees will be equally grateful for nearby coffee shops and restaurants.

Another important yet often overlooked consideration is access to plentiful parking. Prevent employees from the hassle of hunting for parking each workday. Nearby parking helps staff arrive at the office on time. In fact, a dedicated parking area is a major advantage.

Tip 5: Understand the lease

Understanding the terms of the lease starts with examining it from top to bottom. Be aware of flexibility in the terms, such as discounts for signing a longer lease. A one- or two-year contract can be beneficial to established businesses, while a shorter lease is appealing for evaluating satisfaction levels.

Some landlords may not allow office tenants to perform major renovations, such as tearing down walls or completely changing the appearance of the office. While customizing an office space is desirable, find out what is allowed before signing the lease. Otherwise, the company could be charged for damages.

Lease terms are significant, so it is recommended to have a commercial real estate attorney review it. Also critical, especially to growing businesses, is to lease a space with room to grow. It’s impractical to sign a three-year lease and outgrow it within the first year.

Tip 6: Choose a prime location

Location needs differ among companies. Choosing a location in a prime business district, for instance, can drive immediate recognition and project an image of longstanding success. Find a spot that is near highways and public transportation to make it easier for clients to travel to the business.

Tip 7: Ask about security

Building security is of utmost importance to employees and equipment. Ask how the building is secured. Security measures may include a security guard, manned entryways, or after-hours security. Learn about keycard access, security cameras, and safety procedures enforced during an emergency.

Work with a Commercial Mover

A final tip for first-time office renters is partnering with a commercial mover that is reputable, affordable and has a stellar reputation for excellence, such as Chicago Office Movers. Given our decades of experience with commercial moves, we will ensure your office relocation runs as smoothly as possible.

Our budget-friendly moves are performed by licensed, background checked and union movers. Corporate clients receive consistent, top-notch and customized services from our dedicated moving crews. We have successfully handled local, long-distance and international relocations of companies both large and small.

Chicago Office Movers’ services are comprehensive. We offer short- and long-term storage, paperwork storage, and add-on services to ensure satisfaction. Our moving trucks feature lift gates, air-ride suspensions and are climate controlled to keep your office goods secure during transport.

Our dedicated crews have safely moved a range of office equipment, from fragile antiques to IT systems and science lab equipment. Packing and unpacking are optional services. Companies that work with us also receive plenty of help with planning their office relocation.

As a first-time office renter, you’ll need an experienced office mover behind you to ensure the most stress-free moving experience possible. You’ll receive this benefit and many more when you work with Chicago Office Movers. Give our Chicago, Illinois, office a call today for a free estimate.