Storage Movement and the Modern Desk
Our work places, and more specifically, our desks are a reflection of the work we do. They are filled with our responsibilities, our obligations, and our livelihoods. However, the types of desks we use has changed dramatically over the past few decades. This change is a result of our changing needs and the effect technology has had on our economy. So what desk is the best one for you now? That depends on what you do and what your professional goals and responsibilities are.
Storage
For years we designed our workplace around effective storage methods. We needed room for all of our files, books, and other reference materials. This led to large areas full of storage cabinets and lateral or vertical files and an organizational system to ensure we knew where things were. Our desks had as many drawers as could efficiently be put in the design. This allowed us to keep commonly used reference materials handy. When we needed more information we would have to get up and walk to a document storage area or even a library to get the data in question. By modern standards this sounds like a pain and a waste of time but back before the computer revolution this was the way things were done.
The rise of the computer completely changed this way of working. Early computers allowed us to store digital files and began to eliminate the need for large storage areas. Additionally, we no longer needed as much storage space in our personal offices or in our desks. A file drawer could now be replaced by a disc drive or hard drive. This change allowed us to clean up our desks contents. We could use the storage space for things besides drafts and reference materials for the first time.
Then the internet changed everything. Once reputable source data companies started posting information online, our need to go to the library or any other type of information center quickly vanished. We no longer needed books such as encyclopedias or thesauruses, all we had to do is use any number of search engines. As a result our need for extra storage in our office and desk diminished. Drawers started to be emptied and underutilized. As a result we started seeing desks with less drawer space and more leg room. However, there was a trade-off effect. We needed to start thinking about wire management. Electronics and data cables can easily get in the way and need to be managed.
Grommets and wire channels started to become important and are a huge selling feature in any modern day desk.
Need for Movement
A consequence of digital convenience started to appear with the rise of the internet, we were not moving enough. In the past, we would have to travel places to get what we needed to do a job and the internet removed that need. As a result we started to spend way too much time sitting in our office. Most people didn’t even realize what was happening until they started to gain some weight or get some sort of muscle, joint, or back pain. Many major companies started employee health programs to help combat this, but a large amount of people are self-employed or work for a small business and did not have access to these programs. Some people started to go to the gym more often or began a walking routine to ensure they stayed health; however, some people got innovative. Companies started to come up with sit/stand desks with the ability to change the position we work in.
Height adjustable work spaces are the current trend in the office world. They can be used in private offices, cubicles, collaborative work spaces, and at home. What makes them so popular is you no longer have to be sitting in the same position all day. You can start the morning sitting, when you started to feel stiff all you have to do is raise the desk and stand for a little, and if you get tired again return to the sitting position. Many options are available for components that make your existing desk or work area a height adjustable as well. You can simply put your computer, keyboard, and mouse on a platform that sits or clamps to your existing desk. This is a far cheaper option and a great choice for any company that wants to upgrade its work stations. Furthermore, it is never a bad thing to remodel. So if you feel like your work space is getting old simply modernize. Upgrade your furniture to the height adjustable units, your back will thank you in the long run.
As more and more people continue to work from home we must learn the lessons of the past. We know that the internet enables most people to work remotely, but we also know it enables laziness. We must remember to move throughout the day for our own wellbeing and to ensure we remain productive. Finally, now that we no longer need large storage rooms why not convert one. A workplace gym or even just a single treadmill can easily take the place of those outdated files. If you need any advice on how to modernize your office email us at sales@furniturewholesalers.com.