Regular office space updates are one of the clearest ways to demonstrate commitment to your employees. According to NBF research, nearly 50% of employees rated their office space as similarly important versus work-life balance programs and training and career opportunities, only behind total compensation and benefits. What’s more, continual improvement is necessary to ensure the workspace empowers collaboration, productivity and a thriving workplace culture.
However, with many organizations facing tighter budgets, finding cost-effective ways to upgrade office spaces has become a priority.
But how can you have the greatest impact on a tight budget? We asked our office furniture experts about how to find the best bang-for-your-buck office upgrades. Here’s what they had to say.
#1: High-Impact Communal Areas
Communal areas were the stand-out upgrade choice for the majority of office settings.
The logic is straightforward: Communal areas benefit the whole team. When multiple employees can benefit from a single investment, the return on that investment increases. There’s also the aesthetic aspect — communal spaces are often part of the first impression of your business, not only for employees but also for clients and guests.
Communal Height-Adjustable Desking
If it’s not feasible to provide everyone with a height-adjustable desk, consider setting up a shared bank of them. This allows employees to rotate in, giving them the flexibility to take a break from their usual workstations.
Featured product: At Work Adjustable-Height Desk
Collaboration Spaces
Flexible collaboration areas are a modern workspace must-have. These spaces can be reconfigured for brainstorming meetings, seated discussions or virtual chats. Keeping the space adaptable is key to maximizing its use. Consider including multiple kinds of seating areas in these spaces, such as a high-top table with stools for brainstorming and sets of upholstered chairs for casual conversations.
Featured product: Voodoo Bar-Height Collaborative Table
Lounges and Casual Meeting Spaces
Casual seating areas are perfect for impromptu discussions, brief meetings or relaxation during breaks. These spaces encourage spontaneous interactions, which can lead to innovative ideas and stronger team relationships.
By offering a comfortable environment for informal meetings, brainstorming sessions or even just a quick break, lounges help reduce stress and enhance employee well-being. This, in turn, can boost overall productivity, engagement and job satisfaction, making them a valuable investment for any organization looking to cultivate a dynamic and supportive workplace culture.
Featured product: Resi Lounge Chair with Wooden Legs
#2: Lower-Cost Individual Ergonomic Upgrades
A close second in the best bang-for-your-buck office upgrades list is lower-cost individual ergonomic upgrades. According to the NBF Workspaces: Solved Report, 92% of respondents believe that the physical work environment is impactful to their productivity. A key component of empowering employees to work their best is ensuring that their workstations and office furniture are ergonomic.
Ergonomic Chairs
Investing in ergonomic chairs with good lumbar support, arm and seat adjustability, tilt and cushioning can often pay for itself with future productivity. According to the 2024 NBF Workspaces: Solved Report, 83% of respondents cited having an ergonomic chair as very or extremely important for being able to work effectively.
Check out the Chair Ergonomics 101 guide for all the other considerations when choosing your next office chairs.
Featured product: Sleek Mesh-Back Chair
Ergonomic Accessories
While chairs might be referenced the most when it comes to office ergonomics, other accessories can also assist in improving the health and well-being of your employees. Low-budget items such as keyboard trays, dual monitor arms and footrests can help provide additional support to workers while in the office.
Featured product: Dual VESA Monitor Arms
#3: Higher-Cost Individual Ergonomic Upgrades
Yes, the most common concern after basic ergonomics... is more ergonomics.
Height-Adjustable Desks
Ergonomic chairs can only be so effective without a proper desk. According to the 2024 NBF Workspaces: Solved Report, 56% of respondents cited having a sit-stand or height-adjustable desk as very or extremely important for being able to work effectively.
Firstly, great ergonomic posture often requires a specific desk height for different users. Factors such as comfortable foot contact, level elbows and proper computer monitor height are much easier to achieve with an adjustable desk.
Secondly, height-adjustable desks are popular for their sit-to-stand feature. Prolonged sitting is very hard on the human body. The ability to stand and work, even for a little while, can do wonders for employee comfort and overall job satisfaction.
Featured product: At Work Adjustable-Height Right L-Shaped Desk - 60"W
Complete Ergonomic Workstation
A full ergonomic setup also includes footrests, ergonomic keyboard and mouse, adjustable monitor arms and even proper lighting. These additions can significantly decrease the chances of work-related strains and injuries. A more complete ergonomics package clearly demonstrates a company's commitment to employee well-being, leading to improved morale and job satisfaction.
Featured product: Allure Height Adjustable L-Desk Office Suite
Fuel Productivity Potential With These Office Upgrades
Upgrading your office space on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or impact. By focusing on high-traffic communal areas and essential ergonomic improvements, you can make the most of your investment while enhancing the overall employee experience. Prioritizing upgrades that benefit both productivity and well-being can foster a more engaged and satisfied workforce, ultimately contributing to your company’s success.
Contact one of our Furniture Consultants to help you decide which options are best for your budget.
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