January 1, 2013

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A home office is a great idea for established small business owners that lease commercial office space as well as entrepreneurs, startups and freelancers who often take work home with them.

Designing a functional and comfortable home office can be a relatively easy task, provided you follow a few simple rules and take time to carefully plan ahead. Here are 7 home office tips to help you design an office space that is organized, efficient, and well-suited to your small business needs:

1. Pick a Room

When selecting a room for your home office consider a few important factors before making your decision. For instance, you will want to consider the space available in the room—is there enough square footage to provide a comfortable workspace that includes a desk, filing cabinet, computer equipment, shelves and any other furniture you may require?

Secondly, is the location ideal? Will you be able to preclude a lot of general distractions? Consider the following: Does your office space have a window facing a busy street? Is your home office next to the children’s room or family room where noise can be an issue?

2. Determine Furniture and Equipment Needs

The next step in building a functional home office is to decide what basic items you will need in your office in order to stay organized. This can include, but is not limited to, a desk, computer, printer, telecommunications equipment, storage, seating, etc.

If you want to stay productive, you will need to stay organized. The best way to do this is to maximize your office space by incorporating furniture that is comfortable, fits well within the space you have selected and is suited for multipurpose use. For example, if your line of work entails a lot of paperwork, purchase a larger office desk that can accommodate your computer and paperwork, so that you have plenty of space for both.

Also consider incorporating a filing cabinet, desk organizer, wall shelving or a bookcase to keep office supplies organized. Maximize the use of your space by placing printers or copiers on rolling tables so you can have them near you when in use and out of the way when they are not needed.

3. Prepare For Technology

One thing many small business owners often forget to consider, when designing their home office, is how technology friendly the room might be. Will you be able to connect your computer, additional hardware and mobile devices for Internet access? What about a business phone line or fax machine?

4. Improve Office Lighting

Natural light is much more conducive to a healthy and comfortable work environment. Studies suggest that, “Humans are affected both psychologically and physiologically by the different spectrums provided by the various types of light. These effects are the less quantifiable and easily overlooked benefits of daylighting. Daylighting has been associated with improved mood, enhanced morale, lower fatigue, and reduced eyestrain.”

So when designing your home office opt for a room that has a window. If your home office lacks natural light, consider switching out overhead light bulbs with full-spectrum bulbs — light bulbs that emulate natural light. Also, utilize floor and desk lamps rather than overhead lighting to create a more comfortable environment that puts less strain on the eyes.

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