What to Look in a Modern Collaboration Table

Modern collaboration tables are rapidly becoming an essential piece of furniture for dynamic and productive workspaces. They facilitate teamwork, creativity, and efficiency, and can be found everywhere from offices and co-working spaces right the way through to classrooms. But how do you know which features to look for when choosing a collaboration table for your own workplace? In this blog, we’re highlighting the key areas to consider.

Key Features of Collaboration Tables

Integrated Technology

Today’s corporate leaders understand the importance of seamless integration between furniture and technology. After all, this creates maximum efficiency, enabling a team to make use of the full array of tools necessary to their work. Likewise, incorporating technology into a collaboration table is essential.

Integrated power outlets and USB ports allow participants to connect their devices easily, including HDMI, VGA, and other ports for connecting to shared screens or projectors. To keep the workspace tidy, look for solutions that hide and organise cables. Installing built-in media screens is another consideration, including video conferencing equipment or interactive whiteboards to enhance presentations, brainstorming sessions, and remote collaboration.

Durability

The choice of material and aesthetics for your collaborative meeting table can significantly impact the overall ambiance of the meeting space. Try opting for high-quality materials that convey professionalism and durability, and consider using sustainable or recycled materials in construction. The aesthetics of the table should align with your company’s culture, values, and overall office design, creating a cohesive and visually appealing environment.

Size & Shape

Choose a table size and shape that aligns with the dimensions of your space and the number of users you need to accommodate. It’s important to ensure everyone has enough space to contribute without feeling crowded, so a collaboration table will often require more space per person than a standard desk. You’ll also need to factor in areas such as room layout, traffic flow, and accessibility.

In terms of shape, circular or oval-shaped tables promote inclusivity and equal participation, as there are no distinct head or end positions. Rectangular tables with rounded edges provide a balance between formality and collaboration, allowing for face-to-face interactions while still maximising space.

Another useful consideration might be a modular or mobile table. These tables can be reconfigured in various ways to suit different group sizes and activities and are usually on wheels for easy movement.

Storage Solutions

Integrated storage helps keep the workspace organised and clutter-free. Storage solutions for a collaborative table might include:

– Discreet drawers built into the underside of the table
– Open shelves
– Hidden compartments
– Special cable management compartments to organize and conceal power strips and cables.

Complementary Collaborative Furniture

Incorporating some complementary furniture can transform a collaborative workspace into a well rounded, efficient, and inviting environment. Here are some types of furniture that work well in conjunction with collaborative tables:

Ergonomic Adjustable Chairs

Essential for collaborative offices, ergonomic adjustable chairs provide comfort and support, helping to enhance employee health and productivity. Benefits of adjustable chairs include their suitability for long hours of use and adaptability to suit various body types and sitting positions.

Often constructed out of ecofriendly materials, their modern designs suit modern workspaces. When choosing a chair to pair with your collaborative table, make sure it has multiple adjustment options, such as height, armrest, seat depth, and lumbar support.

Stool & Benches

Another seating option is stools and benches. These are great solutions for modern collaborative workplaces because they easily allow users to switch between sitting and standing positions. They are particularly good for informal discussions.

Soft Seating

The use of Soft Seating can be very effective in collaborative environments. Examples of Soft Seating would include Lounge Chairs for comfortable seating in relaxing environments and Modular Sofas because they can be configured to suit different seating arrangements.

Acoustic Office Furniture

When it comes to both open-plan offices and collaborative environments, it’s important to make the right use of acoustic office furniture. These are great for reducing distractions and improving overall workplace satisfaction.

There are many acoustic solutions to consider. Examples include:
– Suspended acoustic panels
– Wall-mounted panels
– Free-standing panels
– Acoustic planters
– High-backed sofas

All of these options will absorb sound and reduce overall noise levels in open-plan offices. Phone booths and meeting pods are also great enclosed spaces allowing for focused work or for small meetings or discussions. The effective use of acoustic pods in itself can often transform a collaborative space into a well-rounded, efficient, and inviting environment.

Collaboration Tables at BT Office Furniture

With the right office table, any office space can become a hub of collaboration. Check our full range of collaborative work tables, boardroom tables, tilt-top options, and poseur tables.

Need some expert advice? Get in touch today with our team here at BT Office Furniture to find out how we can help you to create the perfect collaborative office. Explore our full range of collaborative office furniture online. You can also reach us by emailing [email protected] or by calling 0800 298 7033