In today’s evolving work landscape, many companies are questioning whether a private office suite is the right move for their remote teams. Remote and distributed work models offer unparalleled flexibility, but often introduce challenges in communication and time management. Consider your current office needs: If your team requires a consistent, collaborative in-person workspace, or if makeshift setups no longer suffice, exploring a private office suite or a more flexible workspace solution could be the next step.
The Evolution of Flexible Workspaces
Gone are the days when flexible workspaces were reserved for solopreneurs. Now, these spaces cater to a diverse range of business needs, incorporating everything from dynamic coworking areas to fully-equipped private office suites. Facilities like Pacific Workplaces offer fully-serviced private office solutions to its members. Services include secure Wi-Fi, AV-equipped conference rooms, stylish furniture, and comprehensive amenities, ensuring your team can transition smoothly and start working efficiently without delay. Beyond the variety of services, each workplace provider offers its own unique vibe and community. To help you ensure you’re attaining all of the insights to make an informed decision, here’s a checklist of the most important things to consider when your team is ready for a full-service private office suite.
Location Matters
Selecting the right location should be strategically thought out to optimize convenience for your team. If the majority of your colleagues prefer public transport over driving, perhaps a private office suite in San Francisco, or in the downtown areas of cities like Oakland, Sacramento, Walnut Creek, and San Jose make the most sense since they offer easy access to public transportation.
Consider the following to ensure the location aligns with your team’s needs:
- Commute times for most team members
- Proximity to public transit and parking availability
- Nearby amenities like restaurants, cultural venues, and shops
- Are there secure areas for bicycles for those who commute on two wheels?
Security and Privacy Protocols
The security of your workspace and the privacy of your business operations are non-negotiable. Key points to consider related to privacy should include:
- Soundproofing of rooms and security of document disposal
- Building access controls and measures taken to proactively ensure privacy for members
- How are lost or stolen items handled?
Essential Amenities for Productivity and Comfort
A well-appointed private office suite does more than just house your team; it enhances day-to-day operations and overall job satisfaction. When touring potential sites, consider what amenities are offered to support a productive, balanced work environment:
- State-of-the-art office furnishings
- Availability of conference rooms and event spaces
- Common areas for relaxation and informal meetings
- Access to essential office equipment and supplies
- Access to other membership options like virtual office services
- Complimentary refreshments and staff support services
Robust Technology Infrastructure
The technological capabilities of your office space are paramount. Ensure the setup meets your needs by inquiring about:
- Internet speed and additional bandwidth options
- Security measures and data protection
- Availability of tech tools like smart boards and specialized communication equipment
Fostering a Community Environment
One of the greatest differentiators between traditional offices and coworking spaces is the presence of a close-knit community. This can provide both professional networking and social benefits. Get to know the community dynamics of your flex workplace by exploring:
- The mix of businesses and professionals in the space
- Opportunities for collaborative projects
- Types of professional and social events available
- Member experiences and feedback on the community vibe
Transparent Pricing and Flexible Terms
Finally, understanding the financial and contractual aspects of your team’s private office suite is crucial. If you’re on a tight budget, typically flexible workplaces in suburban areas are less expensive than their big city counterparts. For instance, a coworking facility in the suburbs of Sacramento, CA will likely give you more bang for your buck than a Downtown Sacramento space. During your vetting process, try doing searches of the cities you’re interested in like ‘coworking spaces near me in Sacramento’. That should provide you a starting point of the flex office providers in that area and their differences in pricing.
Once you’ve identified your top flexible workspaces, make sure they offer clear, manageable agreements with the adaptability to suit changing business needs such as:
- A detailed breakdown of included services and additional charges
- Flexibility in adjusting space and services as your team evolves
- To what extent can you customize your private office suite?
- Access to other locations under the same agreement
- Clear and concise termination policies
Making The Decision
Whether you’re a growth-phase business or an established enterprise organization, it’s time to look at your office space priorities and imagine the potential you can unlock with a custom solution. Pacific Workplaces offers flexible office space options for teams and organizations with comprehensive service offerings, state-of-the-art facilities, and vibrant professional communities, making it an excellent choice for businesses ready to take their operational efficiency to the next level. Book a tour at one of our locations below to discover how a tailored private office suite can support your team’s growth and productivity.