Workplace Upgrades and Investments to Consider in 2021

For decades now, numerous companies across the globe have followed a standard 40-hour workweek. If this is the case in your business, it might come as a surprise that each staff member spends at least a quarter of their day at work. Most people spend a significant chunk of their lives at the office, especially considering the steady rise in the average retirement age.

Unfortunately, work is inherently taxing, and the hours your employees spend at the office might as well be the most strenuous parts of their days. Creating a positive work environment can go a long way in making your staff enjoy the section of their day that society tells them to loathe. A positive workplace can make each employee more comfortable, content, and willing to perform their duties to the best of their capabilities - a win for both your staff and the business.

Here are five workplace upgrades and investments to consider in 2021 and beyond.

1. State-of-the-Art Writing Boards

Most of us are probably accustomed to whiteboards from our years at school; however, schools are not the only institutions that use this traditional presentation method. Many business owners purchase whiteboards for their home offices and conference rooms, and the popularity of these boards shows no signs of fading any time soon. However, with more aesthetic, modern alternatives available, one might argue that whiteboards are a tad outdated.

Glass boards, for instance, clearly stand out as the future of writing boards. Investing in a glass writing board array for conference rooms and other areas of the office is a step in the right direction. From the simplicity of glass to smooth cutting edges and contemporary finishes, glass boards look very modern, stylish, and blend into virtually any environment. Plus, they come in multiple colors and are easy to use and maintain. Unlike whiteboards, glass boards show little to no signs of 'ghosting.'.

2. Ergonomic Office Chairs for Back Support

Although office furniture tends to be quite costly, you cannot overstate the necessity for a comfortable office chair. Ergonomics plays a crucial role in each employee's wellbeing, and ultimately, their productivity. Besides, the average office employee spends at least seven hours seated in front of a computer with minimal breaks.

Arguably, the biggest threat to employee productivity is injury-induced absence. Many injuries suffered by office employees happen due to repetitive strain - picture a highly motivated software engineer hunched over a laptop for eight hours a day.

Investing in good-quality chairs can protect your staff's physical wellbeing by encouraging proper posture, consequently boosting productivity. In addition, going out of your way to safeguard your employees' comfort shows that you care.

3. Speakers/Office Sound System

Did you know that music not only helps you relax but also keeps you energized and motivated? Numerous scientific studies have proven that many people who work while listening to music perform their tasks faster and with better quality. Whether your work environment is energetic or pin-drop silent, consider investing in an office sound system.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options at all price points. All you have to do is find the sound system that works for your office and cue up a playlist of (preferably) non-lyric songs.

4. Make the Office Green

Spending the bulk of our time indoors is a relatively recent phenomenon in the grand scheme of human existence. We evolved as hunter-gatherers spending all our time in nature, so it should come as no surprise that we subconsciously relish the presence of plants.

Recent studies reveal that capitalizing on our biophilia - our innate desire to stay connected with nature - can boost productivity by at least 15%. Introducing some greenery to your office can reduce stress, promote creativity, improve memory and minimize illness-related absenteeism, among other benefits.

5. Get a Coffee Maker

Let's face it, most 'office hacks' focus on costly methods of improving productivity; however, there is perhaps nothing more reliable than a quick energy boost from good old caffeine. If you are yet to purchase an office coffee maker, or your current one is due for replacement, consider upgrading to a new coffee maker. Besides, as more millennials enter the workforce, having a specialty coffee machine will be a need, not a luxury.

Conclusion

From splashing out on office furniture to more minor upgrades like purchasing office greenery, investing in your staff's comfort goes a long way towards showing how much you care and, consequently, improving your company's bottom line. Consider implementing these upgrades to keep your employees happy and productive.