From Desk to Chair: What to Consider When Choosing Office Furniture

When purchasing office furnishings, many people focus on comfort and aesthetics. They want people to view their office as a welcoming and client-friendly space. However, they also need to consider the well-being of those who work for the organization. Prioritizing employee well-being leads to a decrease in turnover rates and a boost in productivity and morale. 

Ergonomic office furnishings encourage proper posture. Workers experience less neck and shoulder pain, leading to fewer days missed from work. When choosing office desks and collaborative tables, remember that employees spend half of their workday seated. They need supportive furniture when doing so. 

Factors to Consider When Selecting Office Furnishings

Consider several factors when purchasing office furnishings. Every piece should serve a purpose in the office. Consider multifunctional pieces if your office space is limited, and opt for quality items to save money over time, as these pieces will be used daily. Invest in sustainable pieces to protect the environment. Many consumers refuse to work with companies that don’t make this a priority today. 

Do workers spend most of the day at their desks, or do they spend more time collaborating? Knowing what the furnishings will be used for is important, as it dictates which pieces should be purchased. How much space is available for the pieces, and what is the office layout like? Some companies have zones for different purposes, and everybody gathers in the same room, using the zones as needed. Other companies have separate offices for workers. The furnishings selected must be considered in relation to the layout. 

The company budget matters when purchasing furnishings. Business owners should invest in the best furniture they can afford, as quality pieces save them money over time. One option is to purchase used items, saving money for those that must be bought new. 

Ergonomics

Ergonomics is important when purchasing office furnishings. Employees must be comfortable to be productive. The right furnishings will make them feel as if they are executives in the workplace. Workplace musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) become less common as the workplace fits the worker. 

Height-adjustable desks and chairs serve as an excellent starting point when upgrading the office’s furnishings. Choose seating with built-in lumbar support and select breathable fabrics to keep workers comfortable throughout the day. The wrong office chair can lead to poor posture, back pain, and damage to the spinal structures. 

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is something every employer should be worried about. This condition is caused by poor lighting and computer monitors that aren’t positioned at the correct distance from the worker. The right office furnishings and upgrades to the lighting system can reduce CVS in the workplace. 

People often focus on the desks and chairs in a workplace when discussing ergonomics. Other elements, however, cannot be neglected. The business must also consider the monitor, keyboard, and lighting when working to improve the workplace and employee health. Conduct discussions with employees to identify areas where they believe the workplace is lacking, and use this feedback when purchasing office furnishings to ensure the right items are selected. 

When employers prioritize worker health and well-being, they reap the rewards. Employees feel valued and are more productive throughout the day. They are also more likely to remain with the company, reducing onboarding costs. Every business owner should invest in quality office furnishings. Those that do see an excellent return on investment.