As larger companies and enterprises make the move into coworking spaces, operators need to reassess whether their amenities and offerings are still suited to their occupants.
There’s no doubt that technology is shaping the way people work and interact in coworking spaces. It’s also clear than many workspaces are not equipped to support workers to the level they need to.
A recent report by Essensys found that over 90% of millennials and Gen Z employees experience a gap between the technology currently offered in their office and what’s needed to do their jobs effectively. And, more than two in five employees feel simple tasks take too long in the office because of the standard of their in-office technology.
In today’s fast-paced working world, members of coworking spaces have now come to expect a certain level of technological infrastructure that enables them to work productively. Technological capabilities in workspaces are now also key assets in giving companies a competitive edge in attracting and retaining staff.
Here are five technology trends that coworking members now expect in a space.
High-speed wi-fi
We all know how frustrating slow internet speeds can be – nothing kills productivity like waiting for a page to load. You need to ensure your space has robust internet infrastructure that can provide fast and reliable connectivity to all your members no matter where they’re working from.
A great wi-fi connection is not just about speed though, although it is a critical factor. Your wi-fi should be able to handle high traffic, and have sufficient bandwidth for all the devices that will be used in the space. The last thing you want is members frustrated by slow connections, a poor video conferencing experience, or buffering during online meetings.
To achieve this, consider investing in enterprise-grade networking equipment, including routers, switches, and access points that are specifically designed to handle large numbers of devices and users.
Partner with a reputable internet service provider than can offer scalable and reliable solutions that can handle the traffic volume of your space as your membership base grows.
Smart meeting rooms
In today’s flexible world of work, it’s not uncommon for teams to be spread out across the country or even the world.
Smart meeting rooms offer more than just whiteboards and projectors. They come fully equipped with the latest technology like high-quality video conferencing systems, large displays, and other collaboration tools that are essential for effective communication.
Members can use the tech amenities to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and brainstorm together. Large displays and audiovisual equipment can make presentations more impactful, and collaboration a whole lot easier.
Access control systems
An access control system is a set of security features that regulates who has access to a space. It can include access passes, PIN codes, or biometric systems like fingerprint scanners.
By implementing an access control system in your coworking space you can ensure that only authorized members and guests have access to your space, keeping your community safe and secure.
With access passes or PIN codes, members can access the space whenever they need to, without worrying about forgetting their physical key or being limited to specific operating hours. Systems can also track who enters and exits the space, providing valuable data for space management and security.
A mobile app
Many parts of our personal lives are tied up in apps, from internet banking to booking appointments, so why should our work lives be any different?
Mobile apps are revolutionizing the way coworking spaces operate. With a mobile app, your members can book meeting rooms, check their membership status, and even pay for their membership, all without having to leave their desk. These apps allow members to communicate with each other, share ideas, and collaborate on projects, creating a more tight-knit professional community.
Apps can also provide valuable data and insights into how your members are using your space. You can use this data to optimize your space, make informed decisions about future offerings, and tailor your services to meet the ever-changing needs of your members.
Air quality monitors
If you’ve ever walked into a space and immediately felt congested, had a headache or developed a cough, poor air quality could be the culprit. It can be caused by all sorts of things including poor ventilation, lack of filtration, or even from building materials and furnishings.
As a coworking operator, it’s your responsibility to regulate and monitor the air quality in your space to keep your members healthy. This means investing in proper ventilation, air filtration systems, and regular maintenance to ensure that the air is free of pollutants and other harmful contaminants.
Consider getting certified with a WELL Health-Safety Rating in addition to air quality monitors you install – this communicated to members, guests, and even potential customers how you have adopted evidence-based methods of providing a safe and healthy work environment.
