Cubicle Worksurfaces – Better than a Desks

Even though Cubicles are known in the industry as Panel Systems, perhaps the most misunderstood and critical part of the modern cubicle system is the worksurface. It plays a vital role in stabilizing the entire unit with minimal extra supporting legs or structures. This saves cost, reduces complexity and allows for a great variety of worksurface and cubicle shapes.

Worksurface Benefits

Since the worksurface hangs from the cubicle panel via cantilever brackets it is adjustable in height and needs no legs for support. This means that the underside of the worksurface has no legs to get in the way of your knees, in effect giving more usable worksurface space. The adjustable height feature is great for individuals that are exceptionally short or tall and for those in wheelchairs. A cubicle can easily be designed and adjusted to accommodate an individual in a wheelchair and comply with ADA requirements. Virtually all worksurfaces also have the capability of running cables through a grommet hole in the worksurface itself or a "scallop" at the back of the worksurface.

Sized for Every Need

Options in worksurface depths are often overlooked but can make a huge difference in the work efficiency of each workstation typical. The standard worksurface depth today is 24" and this works for most applications for writing space and computer space. Other typical depths are 20" and 30". A 20" deep worksurface is ideal for a secondary surface – not a primary writing space – that store paperwork and can be located above a lateral file or 20" deep pedestal file. The 4" that you save either will give more space in your workstations or allow for more workstations in a run of cubicles. On the other end of the spectrum is the 30" worksurface which can be a great depth for writing, drawing or organizing intensive work. This typical "desk" depth will really allow the user to spread out.

Shaped to Fit

A multitude of shapes are available to fit different work styles, roles, and the configurations of cubicles. Here is a quick guide:

• Rectangles – this basic shape can be used in most applications and come in various lengths and widths.
• Corners – Traditionally used as the location for a large CRT Computer Terminal the corner can serve as the "cockpit" for the cubicle or simply as a transition between two rectangular worksurfaces. A straight front or cutout corner surface works well as a location for a computer keyboard.
• Peninsulas – These shapes project from a cubicle at 90° and allow users on both sides of the surface. Typically used in managerial or supervisory stations, they are an ideal meeting space. Various shapes of peninsulas conform to different tastes and functional needs.
• Specialty Shapes – Most panels systems offer numerous other shapes for special applications. Browsing through the offering of a system in a "statement of line" will enlighten you with some of these options.

Finishes

High quality worksurfaces these days are covered with a high pressure laminate materials that make for a smooth and durable writing surface. Some lesser quality surfaces will be less durable in high use applications. A durable edge will assure you of years of attractive office furniture that look like new. Two of the most common applications for PVC edge treatments are T-mold and Edge Band. T-mold is usually less expensive but necessitates curved corners. Edge Band can be applied to each side and allows you to have clean 90° corners.

When specifying office cubicles for your new or remodeled office don't overlook the worksurfaces. Their shape and size will improve the functionality and comfort of your employees. So don't forget, even thought it's called a panel system – the worksurfaces are critical.