I've been asked to write a post about getting the most out of your OffiPOD or for that matter any external building you are currently using now for work purposes.
Tip #1 - Get Connected
With home working an integral part of the new normal, so properly installed power and WiFi are essential. Qualified electricians can run armoured cable from the main house to the external building and have its own fuse box and wired or wireless solutions connect the building either back to the main house or have their own connection.
Tip #2 - Technology
Think of technology as part of your home office’s toolset. What do you need to help you focus and be productive? The noise-cancelling headphones that drown out the other employees at an open-concept office can be just as effective for blocking out street noise and loud neighbours.
A laptop is convenient, but having a full-sized monitor to plug it into at your desk can put things in a whole new perspective. A stand for your laptop might be a game changer not having to look down and strain your neck. Laptop users are especially prone to poor posture and wrist position, so the addition of a laptop stand or the use of an external keyboard and mouse could reduce chronic pain.
Smart speakers allow you to request a dedicated “Focus” playlist or a favourite soothing classical composer without getting up from your seat or clicking to another distraction window.
Tip #3 - Bring the outdoors .... in!
You don’t need to rely on technology alone to enable your workspace. Indoor plants are a simple addition that can make a big difference in the atmosphere of a workspace and Offipods are no different. Plants have a calming effect. They can make you feel more focused and productive, while also providing health benefits as many are natural air purifiers. Plants help give life to the space and remind us that there is a living, breathing world outside of work that exists whether the work gets done or not.
In most offices, you have to stick to smaller plants, such as succulents or spider plants. But since you’re at home, you have the freedom to add larger house plants, like a beautiful bird of paradise or a fiddle-leaf fig.
Tip #4 - Natural Light
Offipods are designed so that lots of natural light streams in to them. Natural light improves productivity and engagement, but it’s also been shown to help reduce eye strain, frequency of headaches, and drowsiness while working. Desktop lighting in addition to overhead ambient lighting will create the proper light levels needed to have a comfortable work environment. One thing to consider is the glare this light can cause on your computer. So it’s best that light is coming in either in front of or from the side of you, rather than behind.
If your office space has minimal natural light, or none at all, making sure your space is well-lit is crucial. Having just a desk lamp won’t do. Incorporating various light fixtures into the interior design of your Offipod can be a great way to disperse light throughout the room. That variety can also allow for flexibility, allowing you to choose the right lighting for a specific project. Avoid using bright white and cool lighting, like fluorescent, and aim for warm light or full-spectrum. You can find creative ways to brighten up your workspace too. Decorate with mirrors or other reflective decor or paint the walls a lighter colour.
Tip #5 - Ergonomics
It can be incredibly uncomfortable spending most of the day at your desk, especially if your chair is stiff or your desk is too high or too low. Poor ergonomics can result in various physical issues like muscle strain, frequent headaches, or becoming easily tired. Of course, it’s important that you stand up and move around throughout the day. However, you can avoid common issues like neck stiffness or back strain by incorporating ergonomic office furniture into your home office design.
Choosing a chair that supports your back for good posture and has adjustable features can make all the difference. If you’ll be sitting for a majority of the workday, opt for a chair with a memory foam seat. If back and leg pain is a concern, choose one with a waterfall design to support your back while relieving tension behind your knees and legs.
Ensuring your desk is the proper height plays an important role in your overall comfort and wellness. Typically, your desk should be at a height where your feet are flat on the floor, your shoulders are relaxed, and your eyes are level with the top of your computer screen. If possible, get an adjustable desk that can be used for sitting or standing.
If most of your day is spent typing, consider an ergonomic keyboard and mouse to reduce hand and wrist pain.
Standing desks have become a fixture in offices around the world over the last decade. If you do choose to sit, picking the proper height for your chair and desk can mean healthier days. The ideal sitting desk height for the average person is 30 inches, and seat heights should be around 18 inches. Ideally there should be 48 inches of space between the edge of your desk and anything behind you. Adjustable desks and seats can be lifesavers.
Don't dump house stuff in the Offipod
Messes here and there can become distracting and reduce your productivity. Having storage for documents and supplies that you’ll be using in your Offipod is a simple yet effective way to stay clutter-free while working remotely.
Lunch at your desk may sound appealing, but a soup spill could mean losing time and important paperwork. You may need to keep old files, but you don’t need to keep them at your desk; carve out some storage space and make sure to label things so you can find whatever you need.
And don't use the Offipod as a dumping ground. Keep it the sanctuary that it is.
And lastly - Don't get too cozy!
Getting too snug can be its own distraction. A TV can be distracting, and so too can a comfy sofa. Your space should be comfortable enough to work in for long hours, but not so comfortable that you can’t escape a nap.
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