The daily lives of employees now go digital. Computer, tablet, mobile. Beyond the obvious advantages of these advances (processing speed, simplified flow). The question of ergonomics and physical and mental well-being arises.
Digital transformation has resulted in a greater reliance on software and applications for day-to-day work in office environments. For employees, it’s more about working on devices like laptops, tablets, and mobiles.
With budgets primarily focused on the software and apps available to support more intelligent working, it’s no surprise that the physical work environment needs to be more noticed. Technology has created a mobile revolution that gives us multiple ways to work. But this sometimes seems at odds with the use of standing desk and pieces of office furniture characteristic of office life.
This is not ideal for today’s employees. In the best of cases, a seated posture maintained for long periods reduces the productivity and performance of the employee. In the worst case, it contributes to a deterioration in employees’ physical and mental health.
Occupational health: a key issue
Sitting too long is bad for your health. According to one study, being sedentary for too long increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other metabolic problems. Additionally, sitting for six or more hours during a workday increases the risk of anxiety and depression for the employee. Furthermore, in the shorter term, being forced to sit down to work can cause employees to have difficulty concentrating.
Ergonomic furniture improves well-being and concentration.
Businesses will only fully realize the value of their technology investment if they also care about the human factor. It’s about enabling employees to work healthily and allowing them to get up and move more during their working day.
Using a sit-stand desk, for example, has increased productivity by up to 46%. The freedom to switch between sitting and standing can stimulate restlessness. Especially since the simple act of getting up increases concentration and improves mood. At the same time, it goes a long way toward mitigating the long-term health problems associated with sitting, which can lead to absenteeism.
Better working conditions for all
Unlike rolling out new software, integrating sit-stand office furniture is simple. Indeed, this is possible thanks to the desk converters, which make it possible to transform existing desks into sit-stand workstations. The space-saving converters clamp securely to the desk to comfortably position the monitor. The keyboard and mouse allow them to move up and down quickly. Another possibility is a surface converter that sits above an existing desk and rises quickly and quietly. Also, there are options for corner desks. Some converters offer an integrated dock for mobile or tablet, which is very practical for keeping all devices at hand. Even better, employees feel the benefits from day one, and the return on investment begins immediately. It is relatively rare to be able to say the same about a technological investment!
Allow a connection between employees and equipment for better ergonomics.
Just as apps enable a better connection between employees and tasks, ergonomic furniture creates a better connection between people and their equipment. It is undeniable that we spend long hours in front of a screen. Therefore, it is essential to position the screen in a way that suits your body to ensure employee comfort. Turning fixed monitors into mobile screens is the best way to achieve a neutral posture by mounting them on a fully adjustable arm fixed to the desk.
Monitor arms come in all sizes, making it easy to adapt to different screen sizes and orientations.
Mobile workspaces and ergonomics
Let’s return to this considerable investment in software and cloud applications. These mobility-focused technologies make it possible to move between multiple locations and devices. They have also been designed to bring colleagues together to make it easier for them to collaborate. Along the same lines, extending this capability into the physical workspace makes sense to reflect digital evolution.
People work best when they are free to do it where they want. And sometimes, nothing can replace face-to-face group work. This can be facilitated by providing mobile sit-stand workstations, for example. Sit-stand workstations can be a fantastic option for businesses. Who regularly gather teams around projects and want to put flexibility and ergonomics at the heart of office organization. Mobile carts feature built-in power options, so devices stay powered while moving. Additionally, options for laptops and tablets are available, depending on individual preferences.
A change of location is as beneficial as a break.
Sometimes an employee may want to step away from their desk in favor of a quieter workplace or need a change of scenery in their work environment to help them refocus. Folding desks fixed to the wall are ideal for this. The work surface is height adjustable. To make you benefit from one size, regardless of sitting or standing position. When not in use, they fold up against the wall. They are, therefore, a real space saver and the ideal option to promote dynamic and mobile workspaces.
Harmonization of ergonomics of digital and physical workspaces
Improving the comfort of employees during their working day allows them to focus more on the work at hand. Encouraging furniture movement is a realistic and practical way to achieve this quickly.
Encouraging mobility in this way enables new connections and ways of working and, ultimately, better engagement and productivity. That’s why investing in technology needs to go beyond apps and devices. Furniture adapted to movement encourages people to work differently and move more: which is good for health and business productivity.