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Omaha Magazine

Making the most out of the least workspace

Jan 05, 2015 02:44PM ● By Kristen Hoffman
Whether you are working for a Fortune 500 company or out of your home, most Americans would prefer to have a larger workspace. According to IFMA (International Facility Management Association), the average American’s workspace has shrunk 15 square feet over the last 20 years. In 1994 the average worker had 90 square feet of workspace; now that has been reduced to 75 square feet. Here are some tips to get the most from your workspace, no matter how small it is.

Declutter Purge, purge, and purge some more. If you’re going to have a functional and effective small office, you have to continually declutter. With a small space, just a few items on your desk may cause it to look cluttered. Learn how to purge all the “stuff” you don’t need. Ask yourself, “When was the last time I used this?” Recycle it or pass it along to a co-worker. Set computers, printers, and phones close to outlets so the cords can easily be hidden. Desks that come equipped with wire management grommets also ensure a clutter free workspace.

Buy Furniture that Maximizes Office Space A well-planned office creates a good initial impression on your clients and draws in potential candidates; it also improves the productivity and attitudes of your current employees. How large or small your office space is will determine the kind of furniture you buy. Over one-third of an average employee’s day is spent in the office; quality office furniture ensures a healthy and efficient work atmosphere.

Monitor Matters Flat-panel monitors provide almost effortless adjustments and create significant space savings. By elevating the monitor up off the work surface, a monitor arm frees up the valuable space directly in front of the user, leaving notes, documents and other work materials within easy reach. Plus, the monitor can be easily pushed out of the way to create extra workspace if needed.

Seeing the Light Good lighting is essential in any work environment. Ideally you want as much natural daylight as possible. Natural light not only saves electrical energy, but it gives you more personal energy too. Tone down harsh overhead lights. Add an energy-efficient task light to your workstation to provide light where you need it.

With a little bit of planning, you can make the best out of any small workspace.

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