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7 things you’ll need for a productive and effective working space

The workplace landscape is constantly changing, but it was the pandemic that really switched things up for professionals all over the world.

26 Oct 2021
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While a majority of companies have already pivoted to a remote-first culture, many office-goers have had to rethink the way they worked, whether at home or in an office. Regardless of location, there has never been a better time for us to consider the adjustments that can make a working space more effective.

Besides optimising productivity, these little tweaks can make a big difference in your physical and mental well-being, all of which translates to better performance in the long run. Read on for a simple checklist of seven things to look out for.

Table real estate can be key to your productivity and well-being

A spacious work area

If you’ve been making do on your dining table at home for the past year, you’d know just how much of a luxury table real estate is. For many, working effectively means having essential items like a laptop or desktop, notebooks, documents, and stationary close. Even the tidiest person would realise that these take up a fair bit of space, which leaves you with a cluttered working space that can be distracting and frustrating to be in. 

Having a spacious work area can do magic for your productivity. With more table real estate, you can also afford to add greenery to your surroundings, which can help reduce stress, boost moods, and promote concentration. Some plants even have the ability to clean the air, leaving you with an all-round better environment to work in.

A chair that doesn’t break your back

Many invest in equipment like expensive computers and software, but having the right chair can make just as big an impact on productivity. The average office worker spends at least eight hours in a chair a day and for prolonged periods.

If you’re desk-bound for a good part of your day, using an ergonomic chair instead of a regular one can prevent you from slouching. It provides posture support, eliminating unnecessary pressure on your lower back, neck, and shoulders, so by the end of the day you’re not riddled by aches.

A good work chair also lends adequate lumbar support, so your spine is always in top form as you go about your day. Because no two people are alike, ensure that the work chair you buy is adjustable to best suit your needs. We might be big advocates for comfort, but just make sure your chair’s not that comfy — we don’t want you sleeping on the job!

Screens, multiple screens

There’s nothing worse than having to squint at a tiny laptop screen all day while trying to make sense of an endless spreadsheet filled with numbers and texts. Whether you’re in the creative, Fintech, or financial industry, there’s no denying the benefits of having an expansive computer screen (or two) to work with. After all, there are only so many excel sheets, tabs, platforms, and windows your brain can mentally keep track of. 

Not only are you doing your eyes a favour, but bigger screens also make it easier to organise your work while enabling you to see the big picture. This can translate to an increase in productivity, efficiency, and motivation. Besides, it’ll also make sneaking in a quick episode of your favourite sitcom during breaks way more enjoyable.

Too often we don't place enough emphasis on ergonomics. It's important to get the right equipment that can make you as comfortable as possible.

A good sound system/electronics

Some prefer to work in silence, while others relish in music or white noise to stay focused. If you belong to the latter, having a good sound system at your disposal can make the difference between a good workday and a great one. Choosing a working space that’s equipped with a quality sound system means one less thing you have to worry about when reporting for work.

When you need to block out the rest of the world, having a working space that’s soundproof can also help you zone in on the tasks at hand.

A window to the outside world

Working all day is tough, more so when you’ve lost track of whether it’s day or night out there. Instead of relying on cold, white fluorescent lights, choose a working space that has a window. Better yet if there’s a beautiful view to boot too.

Over the years, countless studies have shown that working spaces with windows can help promote focus and lift the moods of employees. Having plenty of daylight that fills an office space can also reduce ailments such as eyestrain, headaches, and blurred vision, all of which spell trouble for productivity and mood. Besides, there’s no better way of feeling like you’re on top of the world than with a view that shows just that.

Having a window to the outside world is important - even better if you are treated to a view.

Clear boundaries

Open office spaces might’ve been trendy, but they can, in fact, be distracting and less productive. A good working space should be able to draw clear boundaries between work and play and provide privacy to its owner. Those who have the privilege of a personal office space should have no problem in this department, but if you’re sharing the space with another family member or nosy co-worker, the frustration can be real.

Make use of partitions or find a dedicated desk or table that you can truly call your own, and we guarantee that you’ll be able to work more efficiently.

Optimised ergonomics

We mentioned the importance of investing in a good chair, but just as much thought should be put into the rest of your working space. Ensure that your desk is at a comfortable height — not too high or low — and adjust your computer screen so that you’re not leaning forward or looking down, which puts an unnecessary strain on your body.

Your wrists should also be kept neutral, so purchase a wrist rest if needed, and always keep your feet flat on the ground. Most importantly, stand up at least once an hour or do a light stretch at your desk to prevent muscle stiffness.

To prevent sedentary behaviour completely, make the switch to a standing desk instead. It not only lowers your risk of weight gain, but also reduces back pain, lowers the risk of heart disease, and can even improve mood and energy levels over time.

We’ve got you covered

If you’re ready for a working space that’s optimised for you, then be sure to check out one of our flexible office or co-working locations today. 

Singapore: https://www.arccspaces.com/sg-en/locations/singapore/

Kuala Lumpur: https://www.arccspaces.com/my-en/locations/kuala-lumpur/

Beijing: https://www.arccspaces.com/locations/beijing/

Shanghai: https://www.arccspaces.com/locations/shanghai/

Hong Kong: https://www.arccspaces.com/locations/hong-kong/