Cubicle overview
Systems furniture, more popularly known as cubicles (or cubes), are more than just fodder for water cooler jokes. They are also the perfect solution to set up instant office space in a limited area. Each cubicle can be assembled to provide private space for employees in noisy work areas without the need for permanent construction.
It’s important to view systems furniture as more than just a cube farm. You have a variety of decisions to make when finding the right ones including selecting the appropriate features, determining what works best for your particular business, and how much you can afford to pay.
Panel-mounted vs. freestanding cubes
Businesses have two main options for systems furniture: panel-mounted models and freestanding cubes. With panel-mounted cubes, the walls are the basis of the cubicle with desks, file cabinets, and other structural customization attached directly to it. You can also have your power supply built directly into the cubicle for additional convenience. Most businesses place panel-mounts in tandem with other cubes to share a limited amount of space.
Freestanding cubes are simply standalone panels that surround typical office furniture like chairs and desks. They’re easy to transport and set up and don’t require additional installation. Freestanding models are best for temporary solutions or immediate cubicle needs.
Regardless which type of cubicle you choose, consider where the power lies. Freestanding cubes will have to rest near standard wall outlets or include utility poles that hide unsightly wiring. Panel-mounted cubes can have the electricity built into the unit, but you’ll pay considerably more.
Anatomy of systems furniture
Systems furniture is available in three basic sizes: 6’x6’, 6’x8’, and 8’x8’. They typically include ample desk space for a computer and phone and room for one to two chairs. Vendors can customize cubicles for smaller needs (telemarketing space) or larger solutions (manager’s office.)
The height can vary from 34” to 85” high and will depend on the atmosphere and culture of your business. Departments that communicate frequently and need constant interaction may prefer lower walls while those needing privacy and quiet individual space want higher walls. Keep in mind that higher walls usually equate to less light so you may need to provide additional lighting sources. Also, if you want to keep noise out, avoid the lowest walls and glass surfaces which allow sound to easily pass through.
It’s important to maintain uniformity when buying systems furniture. Make sure to pick one particular model and make that consistent for all employees. The individual parts should be interchangeable to easily disassemble the cubes for repairs or expansion. Uniform cubicles also look more professional since it provides a consistent look and feel for the company. And if you’re looking to expand, it’s far easier for the vendor to get additional units from the same vendor.
The look and feel of your cubicles is important. Vendors allow you to pick and choose the fabrics, materials, colors, and designs of the systems furniture you want. Certain customization options will cost more than others, but savvy vendors can find ways to redistribute your costs to make the cubes you want more affordable. In addition, you can typically save money by choosing materials and colors that are already in stock.
Systems furniture features
In addition to the size and customization options, systems furniture offers other features that are beneficial to businesses and their employees:
Storage: Systems furniture can be equipped with small file cabinets, overhead bins, wall shelving, and even external bookcases to offer considerable storage for employees. They also have individual locks for extra security.
Office enhancements: Keyboard trays are a great accompaniment for employees that do a majority of work by their computer. These trays also allow employees to adjust their work surfaces to make it higher or lower depending on their needs.
Add-ons: Vendors can attach whiteboards to one of the walls to allow employees to map out a project. You can also request additional lighting, coat hooks, and customized work surfaces.
Design assistance: A vendor will walk you through the various possibilities for your office. Dipping into their vast expertise, they’ll be able to share with you designs that have worked for previous clients, helpful tips for building in limited spaces, and how to easily expand if your business grows.
Buying used systems furniture
Refurbished cubicles are a great source for affordable systems furniture for small and medium-sized businesses. Not only can you get cubicles with features and customization options that rival new models, you can also save 20% to 30% of the total cost.
In most cases, it’s hard to tell quality refurbished cubes from brand new versions. To prepare used cubicles for resale, each unit is taken apart and inspected. It is then cleaned, repainted, and reupholstered to make it look good as new. Just make sure to look beyond the surface when considering used systems furniture. You want to make sure the repairs weren’t simply repainting jobs.
Also, make sure used cubicles come with a warranty. You want to get several years of usefulness out of the furniture and want protection in case there are any defects or problems with your purchase.
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