The key element that characterizes cubicles is the panel itself – which is why in the industry they're referred to as Office Panel Systems. You will be supplied many options for panels during the design and planning of your office workstations. The performance, configuration and covering of the panels will define your office.

Office Panel Attributes

The quest for your perfect office panel systems begins with considering attributes. You will have a few basic options for the panels in your cubicle system. First, do you want "tackable" panels (those that allow you to use the panel as a bulletin board). These surfaces will be made from a semi-porous, cork-like, or tightly woven fiberglass material. Non-tackable panel materials are usually particle board or steel covered with fabric. Some manufacturers will offer acoustical and non-acoustical panels. This is a misunderstood term – panels can absorb or reflect sound, but the impact of the panel attributes on overall acoustics is minor compared to the primary contributors to a quieter environment, carpet and ceiling materials. It is commonly accepted that there is little difference in the acoustical performance between panels in an actual office setting. Finally, some systems offer both "raceway" and "non-raceway" panels. The distinction is simple: a raceway panel has a horizontal section to carry electrical and data cables. If you have a small set of workstations and don't plan to run electricity through the panels, you can use non-raceway panels.

Office Panel Configuration

Panels from different manufacturers can be ordered in many different options and hundred of configurations. Let's try to understand the basic terminology when it comes to various panel systems configurations.

Monolithic – A monolithic panel is a panel finished with the same material from top to bottom. This could be fabric, laminate, metal or glass. These panels will be the least costly.

Segmented – Many cubicle systems will have the ability to divide the panel horizontally into different sections. This allows for a pleasing look and the ability to use different materials in different sections – laminate at the bottom for durability, fabric in the middle to provide tackability and glass at the top to allow light to enter. It also allows for different colors of the same material to be used for aesthetic reasons.

Removable skins – Some panel systems will have removable segments that provide the option to change the segments when they are worn. This option also allows you to change the color or your office without buying all new panels, or incorporate functional additions like whiteboard or accessories segment.

Both sides configurable – This means that you can configure the segments on each side of the panel differently. This allows for a monolithic look on the outside of your panel systems and a segmented look on the inside or vice versa.

Office Panel Surface Materials

The most noticeable element of a panel in your cubicle system is the panel surface itself. The color and choice of material you choose will not only influence the look of your panel systems, it will influence the functionality as well. Consider these options as you specify the office panels for your cubicle systems.

Fabric – provides a soft look, many patterns and colors to choose from, allows for use over a tackable substrate.

Laminate – is one of the most durable materials you can choose (the same material as your worksurface), can look like wood, granite or other hard surfaces, and can match worksurfaces or doors. There are literally 100's of colors and patterns to choose from.

Whiteboard – can be included in some panel systems to allow for writing of schedules, notes or to-do lists.

Glass or Plexiglas – lets light in and if translucent will also provide privacy. Glass resists scratching and provides a more refined look. Make sure the glass is tempered safety glass.

Metal – is very durable, can be used as a tackboard with magnets and can match other parts of the cubicle system. Sometimes metal has perforations for ventilation or slots to hang accessories.

Pass Through – is a panel or segment that has part of the panel open to allow for communications between stations and to pass materials between workstations. This can also be used on the bottom of a panel to allow access to wall electrical outlets or heating/air conditioning vents.

With all of these choices you can be sure that your built-to-order office panel system has the look, durability and performance that will keep your employees happy and be the envy of your competitors.

Cubicle Worksurfaces

Ergonomic Office Furniture