How do I Choose the Best Cubicle System?

A cubicle system is an often economical way to fit a lot of work spaces in a small room. While providing each worker with a personal area, cubicles also allow easy communication and management of an office or workspace. Choosing the best cubicle system depends on many factors, including budget, size of space, workplace attitude, and even the type of business itself.

Many cubicle systems are made up of a series of dividers that separate a blank space into several smaller spaces. These cubicles may hold a worker's area, office or business machinery, storage, or even vending machines. By keeping areas separate, a cubicle system helps organize the workspace to minimize distraction and put each task, worker, or item, in a specialized space.

The budget available for a cubicle system will help determine what set-up may be used. Features like windows, wall colors, doors, and movable elements may cost more, but can help prevent a cubicle system from becoming too confining and generalized. If nothing more than a basic cubicle system fits the budget, try creating at least one aesthetically pleasing common space or break room, to help keep employees happy and motivated.

Size may be a big consideration when considering a cubicle layout. Consider looking at room blueprints to discover how to maximize space without packing workers in like sardines. Many cubicle systems have custom configurations that allow better use of space in irregularly shaped rooms. The size of each individual cubicle may be determined by the necessary furniture and machine elements as well as the company status of the worker. Larger cubicles for senior workers may be an incentive to stay with the company and work hard, but may also incite resentment among different levels of workers.

Cubicle systems and layouts can provide a blend between privacy and openness, which may be difficult to navigate at first. Some cubicle workers forget that without solid walls, personal phone calls and conversations are easily overheard by others. In a workplace where confidential material is handled daily, cubicles may not provide the best system to maintain privacy. On the other hand, the open layout of low-walled cubicles encourages interaction between employees while providing each with the personal workspace. In a business with a cooperative workforce, semi-enclosed or low-walled cubicles can be a great way to build up relationships and teams.

Decor and materials used in a cubicle system may reflect the type and style of a business. Social and more relaxed workplaces may be a riot of colors, personalized walls, and casual design. More serious business places may choose a cubicle system with a modern or traditional look that suggests a quieter and more professional tone. The best cubicle system is one that helps define the ideals of a workplace while providing a well-organized space for maximum efficiency.