The way we work is changing at an accelerated pace. Here’s how to decide between a conventional office or a coworking space.

The pandemic has caused a tremendous shift in the way we work. Businesses are rethinking the definition of ‘office space’ and are seriously considering pivoting to a more flexible working environment.

Choosing the right type of “office” definitely impacts your employee’s productivity and quality of work. While a coworking space stimulates collaboration and networking, it all boils down to the type of business you have and how you want your business to be perceived by externals, particularly your clients.

Coworking Space

Coworking spaces often have an open layout that can be shared with all members of the space. In order to create an environment suited for open collaboration and communication for the community, you would often see comfortable furniture and shared services, such as printers, napping pods and even free coffee and snacks in the space.

Pros of coworking spaces:

1. An open-concept
Coworking spaces often have an open layout concept to allow members to move around and work anywhere within the areas.

2. Networking & Collaboration
You never know who you’re gonna meet, and therefore have the opportunity to meet and network with plenty of experts from various industries.

3. Not worrying about expenses
Coworking spaces save you the trouble of worrying about costs, such as utilities and renovations.

4. Built-in Management
The space comes with a highly motivated team that manages the space and is ready to assist its members.

>> Read more about the benefits of setting up your office in a coworking space here.

Cons of coworking spaces:

1. Less expensive options
Although coworking spaces are more affordable as compared to a conventional office, some prefer to work from home or a cafe.

2. Unavailable resources
As all the resources like meeting rooms and phone booths are shared with all members, you might not have those assets available whenever you need them. Therefore, it is recommended to book them in advance.

>> Click here to read more about the checklist for choosing the right coworking space for you and your team.

Conventional Office

Conventional (or traditional) offices are the private headquarters of the company. Its layout and style represent the company’s brand. You have the option of choosing an open layout, like of a coworking space, or the option of using cubicles.

Pros of conventional office:

1. Working individually
Traditional offices encourage individual work productivity and focus, as opposed to a coworking space.

2. Personal Branding
The layout and design of the office represent the company’s image and brand.

3. Privacy
The meeting rooms and office spaces are often quieter, thus having fewer distractions.

Cons of conventional office:

1. Long-term commitment
Having your own headquarters often comes with long-term commitments and leases.

2. Less networking opportunities
You will have fewer opportunities to meet and network with people from different industries.

3. Separation
Offices with cubicles or dividers create a barrier between you and your colleagues, figuratively and literally. This then discourages open collaboration and communication between one another.

What WORQs for You?

Ultimately, both types of offices definitely have their merits and demerits. Therefore, it all comes down to your type of business.

A business with a large team or that often meets with clients would typically opt for a private office. Conventional offices are quieter and less distracting as they target to encourage individual productivity.

A coworking space is often best for small businesses and entrepreneurs as they are able to meet, connect and collaborate with one another, ultimately growing together as a community. Not to mention that choosing a coworking space is more beneficial in terms of affordability, productivity and even creativity.

Future of work

With the shift in “how work can be done” and “who can do the work”, the workplace is also redefined – “What Is The Future Of Work”, Deloitte (April 2019)

However, as the way we work is changing, MNCs are also pivoting to flexible office spaces. Instead of traditional co-located workplaces, companies are now open to distributed office or Hub-&-Spoke model.

Call us at +603-2935 8100 or submit your interest now for a free consultation session about your office real estate needs.