Right-Sizing vs. Hoteling: Options for Maximizing Your Office Space
Companies are finally starting to reopen their in-person workplaces. However, those office spaces look a little different than they did pre-pandemic.
Businesses are increasingly adopting hybrid models for employees who want the flexibility to choose between face-to-face and virtual work environments. The Microsoft 2021 Work Trend Index found that more than 70 percent of workers wanted remote options to continue, but more than 65 percent longed for more time in person with their teams. As a result of these differing work preferences, Microsoft found that most surveyed business leaders were considering complete redesigns of their offices.
Two of the most common buzzwords right now for creating hybrid workplaces are “right-sizing” and “desk hoteling.” Both provide ways for future-looking businesses to maximize their spaces while accommodating diverse workforces.
Option 1: Right-Sizing
A company can right-size its office by taking a critical look at its footprint, repurposing assets and filling missing gaps in customer and employee needs. Though right-sizing could result in a downsized or decommissioned physical office, it also could lead to a decision to reorganize or expand the existing space.
For some businesses, a corporate restructuring may accompany the right-sizing process. Do any teams need more personnel to meet increased demand? Who prefers working from the office? Which departments would benefit from more physical space?
Right-sizing ensures that office space is as efficient and effective as possible for the workforce and bottom line. By right-sizing their office structures, businesses can gear up for long-term growth.
Though valuable for long-term sustainability, right-sizing is by no means a quick or easy process. Companies looking for a short-term solution to their current office challenges may prefer desk hoteling or other co-working arrangements.
Here are three considerations when right-sizing an office:
- What are the current and future space requirements?
If growth is on the horizon, don’t get caught in a long-term lease for a building with insufficient space. Take stock of the company’s real estate and analyze whether more or less space is needed to optimize office performance.
- Will any floors need to be decommissioned to improve the space’s effectiveness?
Decommissioning part or all of a space requires significant planning to meet lease conditions. A reputable relocation partner with deep commercial expertise handles the nitty-gritty details to allow for a smooth, stress-free transition.
- Is the current office layout enhancing office collaboration and productivity?
Do employees prefer to work independently without distractions in the office or actively collaborating with teams? Depending on the workforce’s unique preferences, an office redesign can ensure the office meets its new purpose.
Option 2: Desk Hoteling
On the other hand, desk hoteling transforms a workplace into a coworking-friendly arrangement by eliminating assigned seating. When employees enter the office, they can choose any available desk for the day.
Desk hoteling allows a company to accommodate both traditional and remote workers while cutting overhead costs. Employees who prefer working from home can stay remote and only enter the office when they need face-to-face collaboration with colleagues. Employees for whom home is not an ideal work environment can come to the office routinely to complete their assignments.
Desk-hoteling spaces often include silent and social options for different kinds of work. Companies with desk-hoteling offices provide locker bays for personal belongings instead of drawers at every desk.
Here are three tips for a successful desk-hoteling arrangement:
- Create a cleaning schedule.
Nobody enjoys working at dirty or cluttered desks. Set expectations that all employees need to clear their desks of dirt, debris and belongings before leaving. Consider hiring a cleaning crew to keep the shared spaces clean and sanitized.
- Keep employee and client privacy in mind.
Designate a small number of private offices for client calls and any sensitive work. Rather than operating on a first-come-first-served basis, allow employees to secure private office space in advance for big meetings and presentations.
- Design a convenient reservation system.
Allowing employees to reserve desks in advance ensures that business leaders can track office utilization on any given day and make adjustments to the layout as needed.
Whether right-sizing, hoteling, restructuring or expanding, Armstrong — Huntsville has the assets and expertise to make your relocation a success. Our award-winning crew creates a seamless transition while minimizing risk and downtime for your company and employees. Get started today by calling 256.772.6664 or requesting a free quote online.
