Moving into a new office is a great opportunity to make the layout as effective, efficient, and comfortable as possible. A lot of time can be wasted while looking for places to plug up systems, finding the best place for a desk and chair, or looking for somewhere to put internet connectivity equipment. As you consider different office rental options, here are a few plans to have in mind before moving in.

Computer And Mobile Device Connectivity

No matter how mobile your devices, there are times where a consistent workplace is necessary. To comfortably work through files, pull records, or even just charge a phone before going back into the field, an office needs proper sitting space for stationary and mobile employees.

Stationary employees have easier configuration needs for their work spaces. Single desk layouts, group desk layouts, and cubicle layouts can all be wired in a way that gives each employee the right amount of connections to keep their systems on and their peripherals ready for connecting.

If your stationary employees would rather be more spread out, make sure to do an early survey of electrical connections. You'll need to plan for any surge protectors and extra outlet strips, as well as a plan for cable management. Placing cables beforehand can make hiding unsightly cables for safety and appearance easier. Wiring everything after furniture and office occupants start coming in can be an awkward ordeal.

With mobile employees, there still needs to be a mobile rest area. Smaller desks can be used if they don't want or require a full computer, and the desk can act as a docking station that allows charging, speaker and headset enhancements, and any paperwork management storage that can be checked quickly. Keep power strips above the desk to avoid unnecessary bending and kneeling to reduce back and joint problems so your colleagues can be productive for years to come.

Ergonomics And Workplace Health

Speaking of joint problems and productivity, how do you and your colleagues work at desks? Does anyone hunch or slouch over the keyboard, or crane their necks in strange ways to use their computers?

This isn't a time to lecture about posture. Much of computer and office desk posture comes from the most comfortable ways to use a specific desk layout, and that posture can be corrected with proper equipment placement--not just the worker "sitting better".

Posture correction begins with keyboard and monitor placement. The screen needs to be even with the user sitting in a comfortable position with their neck not turning or changing angles in uncomfortable ways. The keyboard must allow the arms to rest and the elbows to extend to the most comfortable angle for the employee.

All these considerations must be done according to the person using the desk. Not the office owner, not the Information Technology (IT) worker setting everything up, and not an employee with an opinion about how everything should be done. The specific person sitting at the desk must have the right tools for comfort, such as giving every desk a set of monitor stands that can be stacked or removed for the right height and desks with adjustable keyboard trays.

Office chairs are also vital, and you'll be glad to hear that you don't have to shell out for the most expensive, allegedly comfortable chairs. A full back chair with lumbar support, adjustable height, adjustable armrests, and weight limits that accommodate all staff members can be the choice for the office.

Contact an office rental professional, like one from Bklyn Commons, for a tour and chance to survey your future office space.