The conference table is the focal point of a busy and productive workspace. It serves as the main command center for collaboration, brainstorming, and decision-making for projects big and small. The design and placement of your conference table make a big impact on your office environment and can significantly affect how your team functions. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about how to best utilize your conference table and promote a collaborative environment.
Create a Central Communication Space
A conference table provides a centralized location for discussion, making it easier for multiple coworkers to work together on short notice. It also eliminates the need to prep conference rooms or rearrange furniture to ensure a functional meeting space. In addition, the design of a conference table allows everyone to have an equal part in the discussion, which encourages the free flow of ideas and boosts productivity. The act of physically sitting around a table for meetings and discussions reminds your team of their shared objectives and helps promote dialogue.
Encourage Teamwork
Conference tables, especially oval or circular shapes, ensure team members can make eye contact, which encourages engagement with each other. Unlike cubicles or individual desks, conference tables boost teamwork, ensuring that no one is left out of the discussion, even unintentionally. The focused arrangement of a single conference table also helps streamline discussions by limiting noise and background distractions. If conflicts arise, then the open atmosphere allows for more productive communication and a quicker resolution.
Promote a Comfortable Work Environment
Small cubicles or tables can be cramped and uncomfortable for employees, which ultimately decreases productivity at work. Conference tables offer plenty of space for projects of any size. Some models also come with built-in technology capabilities, such as outlets, cord management systems, and screens for video conferencing, which reduce clutter and simplify communication with remote team members. Conference tables are often adjustable and can be rearranged based on the size of the team or project, and the additional surface area results in a more functional, less crowded workspace.
Enhance Office Aesthetics
Another way conference tables promote collaboration is by adding to the aesthetics of your office. Conference tables are available in a wide range of materials and sizes to fit any space, providing a high-end and professional touch. For example, they come in a variety of different types of wood, from durable solid wood to more affordable particleboard.
Most people enjoy coming to work in a comfortable and well-designed office. In fact, studies show that a pleasant and well-designed environment results in happier employees who are overall more satisfied in their jobs. Conference tables help create a warm, relaxed office culture where everyone is free to voice their opinion and contribute to discussions.
In summary, conference tables are the ideal addition to any office space. They boost collaboration in the workplace, streamline communication across different teams, and allow for easy communication with remote workers all over the world. No matter your industry, consider investing in a classic, always stylish conference table and elevating the look and feel of your workspace.