Yesterday’s workplace was filled with paper, and papers needs to be stored and filed. These lateral files were commonplace in the past.

Yet, while we still see some need for paper filing, the modern workplace is a digital one, and our storages needs have changed significantly.

Here are some key considerations we are BOS, Haworth Best In Class, think when thinking about storage needs in the modern workplace.

Lockers:

With many companies moving to or considering some form of flexible workplace, there will be a rise in the use of unassigned space, also referred to as free address. These organizations, as well as open plan spaces, should consider lockers for personal storage. There are many types of lockers and privacy options to choose from.

Workstations:

Workstations can also contain a variety of storage options, most common is the mobile pedestal. Common drawer configurations are combinations of box (shorter drawer or larger draw). Some workstations also include overhead or built-in storage solutions, which can come in a variety of options.

Private Office:

Private offices offer even more dedicated storage spaces and are well suited for employees with dedication, or assigned spaces. Offices can be laid out in a wide variety of ways offering storage solutions that meet the unique needs of the user.

Conference Room:

Also consider the prominent role technology plays in the modern workplace. Thoughtful storage solutions in meeting and social spaces will help to house the tools and tech that will power the future of how we work.

Here are some questions to ask when it comes to qualifying storage needs:

1. Where and when are you working? On average, how much time do you spend at your desk / workstation each day?
2. What are you storing? What type of personal items do you need or want to store? Larger items like coats, laptop bags, backpacks, and purses will be stored differently than smaller items like pens or office supplies.
3. Do you file documents? Do you need dedicated space for filing? Will these documents be kept short or long term?
4. Personal or common filing? Do team members require personal filing space ad dedicated workspaces, or can it be more common filing shared by multiple people?
5. Pilers  or filers? Are your team members pilers or filers? Do they tend to make piles of paperwork on their desk that you would like hidden, or are they utilizing filing drawers?
6. Letter or legal? If you require lots of filing, is it typically letter size or legal size that you are filing?
7. Do you need easy access? Do you need quick access to binders, reference material or book storage? Can these be hidden and stored behind a door or drawer, or do they need to be open for faster access?
8. Can personal space be sacrificed? Is desk and knee space more important than filing space?
9. Common or personal storage? Lockers in a common space or wardrobes within their personal cubicle for coat storage. Purses and bags can be stored in a file drawer or a cabinet. Boots can be stored in a wardrobe or under a desk.
10. Is accessorizing allowed? If employees have dedicated spaces, can they personalize them by tacking things to vertical dividers, bringing pictures, trophies, or décor to make the space their own?

While storage has reduced due to the digital nature of work, it is still an important part of the floorplate. A thoughtful design and strategic plan will ensure your space is equipped with the appropriate amount of flexible storage solutions to meet your needs.