Knowing how much space your company needs can be a tricky calculation. Today’s offices have to provide spaces that meet so many varying needs of employees, so knowing what the right size is can be confusing and frustrating. As you look to determine how much space you need, consider these tips and tricks to help you determine the best size and layout for your business.
Beginning the Process
As you begin to determine your specific space needs, it is important to understand that, while estimates can be useful in beginning the process, each organization’s needs will vary significantly. While individual offices and ample community space may be your dream, you may be limited due to your geography or financial situation. Keep estimates for space in mind, but you will also need to evaluate your business’s function and needs individually.
Employees and Their Functions
It is crucial to first gain an understanding of your employees’ roles and functions, as this will be a key step in finding a space that sets your company up for success. Understanding how the business functions on the day-to-day will help you make the most informed decision when it comes to determining layouts. If your employees need privacy in order to complete their daily tasks, your layout may look substantially different than a collaborative and creating space.
Financial Parameters
In entrepreneurship, understanding your budget and your restrictions will be a necessary factor in your evaluation of options and space. While real estate prices will vary significantly between geographic locations, your budget will determine what you can and cannot afford, especially when it comes to layout and auxiliary spaces.
Defining Space
The space in your office can incorporate private, public and communal spaces, hopefully incorporating your functionality and finances data. As you look to define your space, keep in mind that the type of workspaces may need to vary. Senior leadership is likely to be afforded more space and privacy than analysts and administrative support. Don’t forget that your requirements go far beyond just working areas and need to incorporate records, technological needs, administrative processes, communal spaces and collaborative areas. As you define your space, consider creating flexible spaces that can adapt to meet many needs; moreover, this is also a particularly popular trend in entrepreneurship
As you look to sign the lease on a new space, you must evaluate the company’s needs, functions, and budget. With all of this in mind, don’t forget to take into consideration your current state and potential future requirements, as the world of entrepreneurship can shift quickly. You will want to be able to grow into the office and not have to manage a costly relocation again in a year.