For better or worse, cubicles, the slightly padded half-walls forming barriers between office workers, are quite ubiquitous. As office trends change, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the question becomes if cubicles will still reign supreme in the future. While cubicles can be helpful in some contexts, it’s important to take some time to figure out if this common piece of office furniture still has a place in your office.
Lack of Color
One of the most noticeable traits of many cubicles is that they lack color. Beige and gray are the two most common colors of cubicle walls, resulting in an ultra-boring office environment. Colors, both exciting and calming, are an important part of a well-designed commercial space, meaning that colorful cubicles, or the lack of cubicles entirely, are the best options.
Focus
While cubicles certainly have their drawbacks, there is one area in which they help greatly: employee focus. If employees can only see what’s immediately around them, they will be less likely to waste time talking to other employees about items unrelated to work. Of course, since cubicles do offer some degree of privacy, there is always a chance that your employees will take advantage of this privacy to waste time anyway.
Difficulties During Emergencies
Although cubicles might not seem dangerous at first glance, they can cause issues in the event of an emergency. If your employees need to evacuate, the multiple rows of cubicles will make it more difficult for them to find a direct path to an exit. If you choose other types of office furniture for your company, though, your employees will have a much easier way out if something goes wrong.
Stigma
If you’re seeking to develop a modern office environment that is inviting for younger employees, it’s a good idea to ditch the cubicle. Modern employees want open and inviting spaces that remind them of home. Although cubicles might be the easiest option for furnishing your office, you don’t want your company to be outdated and risk losing top talent simply because you’re unwilling to change.
Look Before You Leap
Making changes to your office can be a big investment. That’s why you want to take time to work with a professional designer before you make the leap and perform office renovations. If your current furnishings are in good condition, try to see if there’s a market for your existing equipment before spending a lot of money on new equipment. This will help you get the most bang for your buck and ensure everyone wins. A great way to save money is by going through a liquidation or wholesale company. For example, National Office Wholesale offers both decommissioning and liquidation, which can be a great resource for companies looking for removing your old furniture such as cubicles and getting new furniture too.