subject: The Modern Office: Cubicles And Modular Furniture [print this page] Modular office furniture is a feature in most offices nowadays. These are desks, tables and other pieces that come in easy-to-assemble parts and can be configured in a number of ways to fit available space. Office cubicles are prime examples of this.
Partially enclosed work spaces open on one side for access and separated from one another by partition - these are characteristics of an office cubicle. Usually found in open floor plan offices, they can provide enough privacy for users to do their work without distractions. For many organizations, cubicles have replaced hard wall offices or the traditional desk and credenza setup.
Overhead bins, drawers and bulletin boards are just some of the many items that can be added to a cubicle. Pen holders and magazine racks are traditionally placed on a desk, but can now be found hanging on cubicle walls. However it is accessorized, a cubicle can be classified as either a panel-mounted or freestanding type.
A panel-mounted cubicle is where components such as desks, tables and file cabinets are mounted directly on the panels. It can be equipped with internal power options, and tend to be taller than the other type of cubicle. This gives greater noise reduction and privacy to users.
A freestanding cubicle, on the other hand, uses separate panels placed around furniture. This means that this kind of system works with furniture that you already have. Also, this makes it easier to install and reconfigure compared to the panel-based systems.
Pop culture has many references to cube farms, which are offices filled with cubicles. Examples include Dilbert (comic strip), Tron (movie), Wanted (movie) and The Office (TV show). Although humorous, the term usually has negative connotations of blandness and isolation.
Office cubicles need not give this kind of impression. Working in a cubicle can be made more comfortable with the addition of plants, pictures with family or friends, motivational quotes and the like. It is important, however, to not go overboard with decorations and to stay within the bounds of professionalism by not using items that may be degrading to or disrespectful of other people.
Being a type of modular office furniture, cubicles allow great flexibility in terms of office layout and many opportunities for self-expression to users. Aside from being available in a variety of designs and materials, they can be bought refurbished or as clones of established brands. With creative design and purchase choices of office cubicles, companies can provide their workers with productive and efficient work spaces while saving money overall.
