Design and Planning Office Workstations and Panel Systems

So you've chosen to purchase new office furniture – now what? The workstation design and planning process can actually be much easier than you might think. Follow this simple four step process from Maxon Inspirations and you'll have no problem getting the exact systems furniture you're looking for. Even without Maxon Inspirations, an office furniture dealer will take you through the same basic steps of workstation design simply without the specialized visual tools.

1. Select a Workstation Typical

Example Workstations

Each department in your organization usually has different functions and different work styles resulting in differing needs for workstations. For example, an accounting department might save copies of invoices and therefore need office furniture with extensive filing cabinet space. On the other hand, a graphic artist may need a workstation with space for a large screen, scanner and workspace to review artwork. At this step you will need to select the best "typical" layout for each department. With the Maxon Inspirations program you can select from 37 workstation typical layouts, from reception stations and call centers, to accounting workstations and executive desks. Once a basic typical is selected, it can be adjusted to the specific size that is ideal for your organization and space.

2. Add Workstation Design Details

Built-to-order workstation systems can be customized with literally thousands of combinations, but by utilizing the Inspirations System visual representations, workstation design is easy.

  1. Choose your panel configuration from a selection including monolithic (one piece) panels, segmented panels, glass panels, doors, and so on.
  2. Figure out the ideal shape for your worksurfaces, keeping in mind their functionality and comfort level.
  3. Consider the storage and filing needs of each employee – will they want storage attached to the panels, or located under the worksurface? Make sure your workstation systems accommodate these needs.
  4. Choose workstation systems' accessories to improve your employees' productivity and comfort. Consider ergonomic keyboard trays, LCD monitor arms to allow easy movement and free up desk space, and trays and bins for keeping track of documents.

3. Select a Workstation Systems Product Line

Once you've figured out what you need, your field of potential product lines should be significantly narrowed. Now you can just choose the best systems furniture line for you, taking into consideration looks, price, and availability of options you're seeking.

4. Choose Your Office Furniture Color Palette

Example Color Palette

High quality workstation systems like those offered by Maxon Furniture are built to order. This allows you to choose from a range of color options for your office furniture including materials (fabric, laminate, glass), worksurfaces, and paint, so you can get the exact color palette you want. The Maxon Inspirations program offers a selection of 20 pre-defined designer-developed palettes in various colors, so you can choose your favorite or use them as inspiration for further office furniture customization.

Order an Inspirations Guide now.