The term desk sharing

Desk sharing – a term that is cropping up in more and more companies. But what exactly does it mean? In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about modern workplace design. From the basic principle to opportunities and challenges, as well as specific tips for implementation. Let's delve into the world of flexible working together!

What is desk sharing? The basic idea simply explained

Desk sharing literally means “sharing a desk”. This means that workstations are no longer permanently assigned to individual employees, but used flexibly. Instead of sitting at the same desk every morning, you look for an empty place in the office every day. The core idea is to make optimal use of existing space and use it efficiently. Let's be honest: how often are desks empty because colleagues are working from home, on projects or at meetings? Desk sharing helps to better reflect actual space requirements – and save office space.

More than just cost reduction: the advantages of desk sharing

For companies, the main incentive often lies in space optimization. But desk sharing can do much more:

Promote flexibility: employees can decide independently where and with whom they want to work. This promotes independent action and increases satisfaction.

Strengthen collaboration: changing seats automatically brings you into contact with different colleagues. This breaks down barriers, creates new networks and synergies.

Boosting innovation: changing the configuration of the workplace encourages fresh ideas and new perspectives, which in turn invigorates the company and drives innovation.

Reducing mountains of paper: clearing your desk every day makes you question the usefulness of old folders and consistently sorts out the unnecessary. This saves space and makes it easier to switch to digital storage.

But it's not all plain sailing. As tempting as the advantages may sound, desk sharing also brings challenges.

Where do I leave my personal belongings?

How do I quickly find a suitable workplace?

What if the technology fails?

Do I still feel part of a team?

These are all legitimate questions that employees have. That is why careful preparation and support for the change process is essential.

The path to shared desks: tips for successful implementation

So how can desk sharing be successfully introduced? Here are a few practical recommendations:

Involve your employees from the outset. Explain the background, listen to concerns and develop solutions together. Only if everyone is behind the concept can it work in the long term.

Invest in suitable workplace equipment. This includes mobile devices, a stable WLAN, docking stations and ergonomic furniture. This way, everyone quickly feels at home at every desk.

Create sufficient storage space for personal belongings. These can be lockers, mobile pedestals or lockable cabinets. It is important that everyone has a safe place for their equipment.

Use user-friendly booking software. This gives everyone an overview of free spaces, allows desks to be reserved in advance and lets you locate colleagues. This makes coordination much easier.

Establish clear rules and responsibilities. A “clean desk policy” is mandatory, but rules of conduct for meeting rooms, telephone boxes, etc. should also be set out in writing. This way, everyone can work together to create a pleasant working atmosphere.

Conclusion: desk sharing is more than just a trend

The world of work is changing – and with it, the demands we place on our offices. Desk sharing is an exciting option for using space efficiently and meeting the individual needs of employees. At the same time, the concept promotes exchange, creativity and personal responsibility. Sounds promising, doesn't it. One thing is certain: saying goodbye to your own desk is a change process that needs to be well orchestrated. However, with the right preparation, smart tools and an open corporate culture, the transition can be a lasting success.