According to recent statistics, workplace productivity is declining. Employees are less engaged, taking more sick days, and are increasingly turning to the internet as an escape from work. To reverse this trend, consider how important the office desk is in improving productivity.

Optimizing the Office Desk

When you think about the most important tools at your job, what comes to mind? Your computer is probably at the top of the list, followed by your phone. But what do these devices rest on during the day?

Your desk and chair represent two of the most important office components. Together, they create your work space. But what can you do to maximize this space?

Incorporate Movement and Ergonomics

Height-adjustable desks have a number of benefits. Users can sit or stand alternatively throughout the day. This not only improves comfort, but also enhances health and wellbeing.

We all know that sitting for hours on end is bad for your health. By being able to stand and continue working, employees can improve their circulation by simply moving around. This increased activity is not only good for the employee, it also improves productivity.

More movement means more blood flow. And more blood flow means more oxygen getting transported through the body. This oxygen is necessary for our mood and creativity.

Add the Right Accessories

If your workplace allows some personalization, use this to your advantage. While things like motivational posters and calendars will boost your mood, other elements may boost your productivity.

First, how’s the lighting at your office desk? If you’re not near a window, or you feel yourself squinting to see your screen, a new light might help. Something as simple as a desk lamp may improve your mood by providing light therapy. Especially during winter months, this can be a huge help.

Also, consider adding some greenery to your space. A desk plant will help purify the air around you, which is a plus. And research shows that the color green increases productivity – a major benefit!

Even if you don’t have a green thumb, there are many plants out there that do well with little care. Air plants, cacti, and succulents require very little water or attention, making them perfect for the office.

A Little Privacy Goes a Long Way

While open offices have been gaining popularity, privacy is extremely helpful for productivity.

Think about it – if you had a large project to finish, would you want to work with fewer distractions or more? When designing an office desk space, even a collaborative one should have some private stations available for important phone calls, meetings, or simply to get things done.

Noise canceling headphones go a long way, too!

Finding the Right Desk for Your Office

Designing your office all comes down to improving functionality. Think about each employee and what their role entails. If they’re at their office desk all day, the flexibility of a height-adjustable desk is important.

If employees are frequently meeting with other associates or customers, they should have a desk large enough to accommodate everyone and some privacy for important conversations.

Designing a productive workspace takes time and skill, but you don’t have to go it alone. See how we help businesses with office design and planning to improve performance.