In the traditional conference room, a representation of the hierarchal system was prevalent, in which the boss sat in the front, (at the head of the table) and the rest of the employees sat on either side of the table. This hierarchal system, however, not only promotes meek submission to authority but also acts as a hindrance for employees to present their ideas. This traditional setting is not one in which a lot of individuals feel comfortable giving their input because they don't feel confident that it will reach an attentive, open audience. Therefore, to give rise to open conversation with and among employees and to ensure productivity, you need to rethink the structure and design of your conference room or boardroom. Following are the ways to revamp these office spaces:
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© OFS Brands Eleven Conference Table
Space for Multiple Purposes
Many businesses use conference rooms for multiple tasks; therefore space should be flexible to be used for social functions as well as for strategic planning. The amount of space in each room is important to accommodate all staff members when the need arises. On the flip side, it should not be cramped or claustrophobic or hinder people’s mobility in any way. Bigger businesses require larger meeting rooms to represent the image and success of the company. But if your firm is still in its beginning stages, you probably won’t need a colossal meeting room for the time being.Furniture & Table Configuration
Conference rooms usually have long rectangular and oval tables which are surrounded by chairs. Some bigger rooms have rectangular tables facing a podium, making getting up and leaving much easier. For more collaborative conferencing, (intended for less than four people) use tables that have a hollow gap in between and chairs surrounding for small group discussions.Chrome or glass tabletops give way to openness and add a modern feel to your design. With these tables, you can add fun, eclectic chairs (even used, mismatched pieces!) for a more diverse style that loosens up the energy in a room. Conference tables with a glass top are symbolic of openness towards new thoughts and ideas. As for the height of the table, it should be of standard height; otherwise it could require different or specialized chairs.
Technology & Gadgets
Gadgets are a necessity in the conference room. Video conferencing takes place in almost every business, so the right equipment should be present and proper lighting installed. Blinds or curtains should be used to block any outside light creeping in for optimum video screen visibility. The conference room should also be sound proof for privacy purposes and so that other workers in the office space are not disturbed.A lot of technological crises occur during video conferencing. Losing Internet connection, audio problems, multimedia issues, the list of potential obstacles goes on and on. An easy way to solve these problems is by using a touch panel. With the touch of a remote control, your conference room switches into presentation mode: the projector lowers from the ceiling, windows are covered, and the presentation appears on the screen.
Business conferences can be dull and bland, but they remain crucial to the success of a company. A major redesign of your meeting space can help reinvigorate your employees with a positive, open mindset. By properly designing this space and making the necessary technological upgrades, conferences can become shorter, more to the point, and more likely to hold the attention of everyone involved.
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