Technologies that help Co-working Spaces

Co-working has become a very fast-growing and highly competitive industry in today’s market. The industry has been growing massively and continues to adopt new and latest technologies in order to stay ahead in the race. 

 

The increasing competition makes it almost no-no for zero scopes of errors. Co-working management gives full attention to improve its services and stand up against competitors. A shared workspace is very hard to be imagined where the software used is not updated or not maintained properly. 

Here are some ways how you can focus on improving operations through software :

 

1. CRM

It is believed that every co-working spaces to have a CRM of their own. Customer Relationship Management is where you would store all the information or data. CRM is used to track records, manage leads and every other information efficiently. 

 

2. Internet Listing Service (ISL) 

ISL helps you to create a space by removing marketing time and unruly problems. You can get better leads as customers looking out for coworking spaces can glance at your space at once. 

 

3. Robust Billing System 

Paper checks excel spreadsheets can be very monotonous and time-consuming. So, a powerful and advanced booking system is very important for a coworking space. A major drawback for your office space can be not having a proper billing system. There are technologies that you can automate the entire billing process making it convenient for everyone. 

4. Analytics

The key analytics and access to all the data are very important. Don’t waste your time in creating spreadsheets and growing through long documents, instead, the software would help to keep a check on all the data at one place where you can access it with ease. 

 

5. Automated Booking 

Automated booking makes your life much easier; it is very accurate and simple than the manual process. Even If it is a private office, a conference room, a hot desk, an automated booking solution will help you operate things simply. 

 

Henceforth, these tools are meant to streamline entire operations processed by helping you to focus on providing your members with better working experience.

Make a friend : Network and collaborate

Did you know that networking is an investment in your business? The art of networking is not at all simple and needs a lot of planning. It is assumed that if you want to increase your contacts then you need to network. A co-working space is an opportunity where you can channelize networking. 

Be it social media, emails or websites; advertising and networking have become primarily digitized. But the classic coffee and dialogue exchange is any day a better solution. 

Here are some tips that will help you increase networking at your co-working space. 

 

1) Co-working Events 

Coworking spaces host a lot of events every now and then. A way to bring all members in an office space together and to collaborate is to make them participate in various activities. To flourish your business, you must attend such events where you get to meet lot of people. If you listen to what others have to say, then you might find a prospect for your business. 

 

2) Brand Awareness 

To let your co-workers, know about your business and the services you provide, you ought to strike conversations in the cafeteria or in the lounge. Brand Awareness is very essential for your business. When you let people know what you are doing, then only people will approach you. 

 

3) Utilise your break

If you get a break or even when you are out, make sure you create and strike conversations. Have a walk around the entire space, notice what people are doing and let them know that you are a valuable individual. Take people for coffee, smoke breaks and throw up good conversations that may create good contacts. 

4) Organise an event

Another fun and quirky way to collaborate is to throw an event or get-togethers itself. The workshop or event can be awareness related, teamwork or leadership enriched. This is one of the best ways to let others know about your products or services. It may seem exciting and one gets to create some genuine contacts in the trial. 

 

Workshaala gives you the opportunity to organize events and collaborate at various levels. Book a seat for yourself and enjoy the services at affordable rates. 

It is said that “myth is, after all, the never-ending story”. There are some myths about co-working spaces too. Typically, co-working spaces offer business-standard infrastructure, including ergonomically designed cubicles and meeting rooms along with top-notch amenities. There are multiple myths that surround these shared spaces. 

 

Myth One: Co-working spaces are expensive 

 It is to be noted that a coworking space is never going to cost more than renting or buying an exclusive property. They have great deals and discounts depending on your requirements. If you are set to build your own office space, then there are a lot of things to be taken care of like infrastructure, electricity, appliances, hospitality support, etc. When it comes to coworking, then these are already taken care of by the provider or the community manager. At the time of comparing costs, do consider the miscellaneous expenses. 

Myth Two: There is no privacy 

A private self-owned office has some amount of privacy, but it is very evident to think that at coworking spaces, you would be sharing space with others. But it solely depends on how well you can utilize the services provided by the provider. For private discussions, you always have a meeting room. Your information is private if you can manage to keep it safe. 

 

Myth Three: Working in a co-working space is like working from home or a coffee house

At home or a coffee shop, you become cozy and distracted as you don’t have a professional vibe. Coworking spaces provide amenities and infrastructure that becomes a perfect fit for creativity and business. Help and support like Stationary, WIFI, hospitality and tech assistance are only found in a coworking space. These spaces are good to network and connect with various business professionals.

 

Myth Four: Coworking spaces are noisy!

It is assumed that shared offices are very noisy, disturbing and unproductive, but to the contrary, the atmosphere is very calming and relaxing for someone to work. People who work in a coworking space make sure that their discussions are very silent. These spaces have different areas especially subjected to open discussions and conversations.

 

Myth Five: Only for freelancers and small businesses

We misinterpret that these spaces are tailored only for freelancers, individuals and small businesses. But, if you visit one, you can find big parent companies which are also opting for coworking. You have several seat options to book based on your requirement and availability.  

 

Now after debunking these myths, why don’t you experiment and experience all by yourself with us. 

From its stuffy and cluttered past, co-working has changed a lot in the past few years. The benefit of sharing a place with various organisations, startups and freelancers was an unimaginable dream in the past but in the coming days, this business has been favourable to entrepreneurs.

Digital nomads have been invading the work market and 9-5 common workers are also transitioning with the flexibility of space and time that has transformed our working style. The coworking industry has grown as one of the quickest developing trends in the work ambience. It is estimated that India is one of the biggest markets for shared and managed workspaces. 

 

By this time, we know that coworking creates an ambience for people to showcase their creativity, increase productivity and connect with people from different ethnicity and backgrounds. This is a flourishing real estate business for landowners and plays an important role in alluring occupiers. 

Here are some reasons why Modern India needs to accept this trend :

1. Advanced productivity and creativity 

According to a few studies, shared office spaces have increased opportunities in terms of collaboration and productivity among its’ members. As many coworking spaces like Workshaala, are offering facility management, many companies can reduce their traditional operational costs and expand their productivity. These days due to automation and technology, smart desks and smart printing are in the making that promise a future for coworking. 

2. Sustainability Targets

Millennials and Generation Z are somewhat, leading coworking spaces in India, with a whopping 75 per cent of start-up owners. Due to increasing demand, there are high chances that we are exploiting natural resources. To increase sustainability, price savings nearly up to 20 to 25 per cent, using public transport and sharing workspaces have gained popularity. Many coworking spaces have adopted green practices like using solar lights and smart lights. There are some offices that are coming up with drought-resistant plants for saving water.  

 

3. The future 

According to NASSCOM’s study, India holds the 3rd largest startup ecosystem in the world. It is predicted that nearly, 10,500 new start-ups that would require to rent a desk for work will enter the market by late 2020.  It is also estimated that there will be an increase in the spaces acquired by coworking spaces to 7.9 million feet by this year. 

4. Bottom Lines

There would be a huge development in the coworking segment. The model of sharing economy is growing powerfully across different countries. In a country like India where there is a potential for major youth percentage, coworking spaces have a huge boom hit.

Besides being the current worst city for traffic, we all are aware that Bangalore has got the perfect weather, working environment and much more upcoming opportunities. The increasing number of IT companies along with the startups and SMEs across various businesses has made this city welcome many people all over the country. 

 

Many professionals are looking for ways to start their career or business. The reason is itself the opportunities and upcoming amazing coworking spaces. Here are some more reasons why you should look for furnished office spaces here. 

 

1. Affordability

         When it comes to starting a business, there are a lot of things we are ought to focus on. An office space, basic office necessities, which can easily cost a fortune. It is considered that hiring a shared office space can bring an end to all these worries. If you compare this to a traditional workspace, a shared office is always a better option because of its affordability. 

 

2. Proper Infrastructure

Everyone looks out for great infrastructure and interiors. Who wouldn’t love a great office where you feel fresh and rejuvenated? Freelancers and entrepreneurs can use all the facilities that these coworking spaces offer without any expenditure. Amenities like well-equipped workstations, conference rooms, high-speed internet, a pantry or cafeteria, parking and a great location. 

 

3. Equipped

The only thing you need to do is to look for the best coworking space according to your team, requirements and budget. The rest is arranged and provided by them, from the latest office equipment to updated technology. You can just concentrate on your work and pay the bills on time. 

4. Collaboration 

Where is the fun in running a business without people? You just can’t sit and thrive all alone. Even if you have the idea, you will need a team or some like-minded people to execute them. Shared office spaces are the right place to exchange ideas and network with people across different platforms. 

 

There aren’t any co-working spaces in Bangalore that might not interest you but to choose the best you need to check the transparency and here we provide it. 

Four Inevitable Future Work Trends

Coworking spaces have offered people a chance to move out from their conventional workplaces and cafeterias to a better working environment.  This betterment has brought individuals from different industries under one roof on a productive basis. By now, we are aware of the opportunities these spaces provide like collaboration, interaction, and other perks. 

 

With new trends coming up, there are few more inevitable trends that are going to boom this industry. 

1. Large enterprises experimenting coworking 

Coworking has got a corporate makeover where big ventures are producing quite an impressive amount of gains. This has increased the funds of virtual workplaces that help them enter the corporate market. 

These big companies have started looking out for coworking environments. They are working on rebuilding their plans and work models with an effort to work better in future. A new trend of unassigned seating and activity-based workstations are being adopted. 

2. Employee’s Health 

Any workspace with most productive results is the one that has health programs with their focus on their employees. It is estimated that 89 per cent of employees in companies are happy about this wellbeing initiative and are recommending their organizations’ as a good place to work. 

A healthy and delighted workforce result in productive output. Corporates are also taking steps to make sure their employees are happy. This is the reason why some offices have started breakout zones for relaxation. 

 

3. Tech Benefits 

Technology has dominated over workplaces in many ways. Hence, even various types of software have come up with management benefits. All valuable data can be stored and used in certain ways for the purpose of login, log out, salary, attendance etc. They can track the membership, meeting rooms capacity and much more. 

4. A rise in the number of Digital Nomads 

Today, everyone’s work depends on the internet. New gen has prioritized their work with inbuilt flexibility. From employees to freelancers, the use of internet for work has risen. Coworking spaces have accepted these groups of nomads who need high-speed internet connectivity and free thinkers. Digital nomads have complemented these spaces which are quite flexible. 

 

These inevitable trends are making it easy for coworking spaces more approachable. Workshaala also is adapting to these trends and expanding its branches out in various cities 

Co-working spaces are considered to build a network, collaborate, and save more than a traditional office. It is becoming a trend that is growing with every passing day. From startup to new small businesses to freelancers, everyone uses these shared office spaces and boasts about their creativity and productivity. 

 

It is said that this creativity depends on a lot of things. This can be coworkers or the working environment or maybe the breaks on a hectic day. Here are some ways to intact your productivity at your shared office space. 

1. Discipline

To boost productivity, it is advised to maintain a certain kind of discipline. Discipline in terms of coming to the office regularly and on time, spending some quality and productive work hours without coworkers distracting themselves. 

 

2. Space

Shared Office Spaces are considered to be the solution for many business professional’s offices’ needs. Even though your business might get a chance to connect and collaborate, you need to make sure to increase your network but with equally personalizing your space. It is better to detach yourself from the worldly distractions to focus better on work. 


 

3. Smart Work

Gone are the days when people worked hard but now it is all about smart work. You should always work towards things that will make you work smartly with less effort and early. You would learn greatly to work smart with multitasking from your coworkers.

 

4. Take Breaks 

Your human brain can’t work 24 hours continuously. To give 100 per cent in whatever you do, you might need to take breaks to boost your productivity. Having a walk or a coffee/ tea break would calm you down and make your brain work better. 

 

If you lost your productivity already and can’t focus any better on work, then why don’t you follow these tips and work better. 

Indian businesses have welcomed shared workspaces trend this year. Researches state that the market of coworking spaces will flourish more in 2020.  The question everyone wants to know is what is driving the coworking trend in India. The flexibility to work with various facilities makes coworking spaces most preferred among SME’s and other working classes. It is considered that there are a lot of benefits that shared workspaces offer small to small and mid-sized businesses.

 

Let us look at some reasons why mid-sized businesses are shifting to coworking culture and enjoying the benefits. 

1. Hassle-free Lease Terms

The leasing of a traditional office has a lot of hassles which are endless. These include paying a huge amount as security free, signing many legal contracts and many more. Coworking spaces are the plug and play spaces which have the option to pay for the space you use. The contracts can be either short or long according to your requirements. 

2. Infrastructure and Facilities

A proper infrastructure, basic facilities, updated technology is very important other than a fancy office. A coworking space gives you everything that you need to for flourishing and concentrating on your work. It is considered that with shared offices, you get to select your workspace or a private cabin, hot desk or conference room for yourself or a team. 

 

3. Cost-effective

Many mid-sized businesses are not financially very stable. But every company wants that prime location that can be useful for their business. Coworking spaces are generally at prime locations that offer you various amenities at affordable prices.

4. Networking 

Networking and collaborating with like-minded people, getting to know about businesses and skills. A shared office promotes the opportunity to connect and accelerate. You could sip a coffee, at the lounge or cafeteria where people can make good conversations.  

 

Workshaala has been able to host and serve many mid-sized entrepreneurs lately.

Evenings at Co-working?

 

What do people at coworking spaces do in the evening is the question. Employees aren’t working in a 9-5 schedule anymore. They work round the clock or even on a shift basis, this might get boring and tiring sometimes. Coworking spaces have separate sections to chill like games, cafeteria and cool spots to chit chat. The working population can be from different startups, but they get to share the same office space. 

 

Let us look at some of these evening events and activities that happen at a coworking:

1. Game nights 

Coworking spaces organize game evenings for people every now and then especially when there is a big game like cricket or football. This depends on the gaming season, interested crowd and the craze for the sport. 

2. Ditch Coffee

The emergence of coffee shops, that encourage startups to hold a meeting and work out of their premises has forced coworking spaces to innovate, provide more than just sterile cubicles, and a campus-like environment for entrepreneurs and staff. Many meetings are now held in the evenings as it is believed people are more productive in the evenings than mornings. Employers have also started happy hours after meetings where they go out to eat or chug beers together creating and promoting healthy professional relationships. 

3. Seminars

Since we were kids, we might remember how we used to wait for the seminars to end. But at coworking spaces, the scenario of seminars is completely different. Renowned people from colleges or various workplaces are called to give seminars of current, relevant and important topics which are important for personality development and even work-related. Next time you are invited to a seminar, always make notes because you aren’t in school anymore. 

4. Food fests

We all love food right. To celebrate the foodies in us and even there isn’t a celebration without delicacies or food. Once is every quarter, few coworking spaces organize food fests where people from different ethnic backgrounds are asked to get a food item which symbolizes their hometown. Various food items are displayed and shared among the coworkers where they celebrate the moments. 

The team-building activity could end in disaster or something delicious.  It is noted that when the members are divided into smaller teams and are asked to create a new dish together, they will require them to put in all their leadership skills and team spirit into their dish. 

5. Workshops 

Professional development workshops are necessary to let the coworker bond while they are provided with opportunities to learn and grow in career. These workshops can be organized at coworking spaces where they would specially cater to the jobs of employees or something general related to leadership skills. 

The workshops might display support and dialogue of coworkers with a fresh perspective.

The way we work has slightly changed since 2019 and will keep undergoing many transitions in the upcoming years. Traditional workplaces are changing into modern-day offices. It is believed that employers have found that the old, boring kind of thinking has reduced the efficiency in meeting modern-day challenges.

Modern-day workplaces have blended workforces which have the potential to become more responsive to problems. You might have seen employees using modern collaborative technology like Skype and Google Docs to communicate. 

Here in Workshaala, we generally use Slack and GreytHR as a communication and management tool. Workplaces have been evolving to meet the real-world needs of both employees and employers. Here are 5 modern workplace trends that have changed the way we work. 



1) Flexible Workplaces

In reference to a study from Intuit, 40 per cent of the workforce will comprise freelancers by 2020 end. Marketers are interested in this workforce as freelancers can drive efficiency, especially when considered with the cost cuttings on administrative and healthcare costs. Millennials are happy with the opportunities and the control they have on their schedules.

Outsourcing Platforms are extremely beneficial when it comes to the perks for workers:

1. The flexibility to choose whom to work for and at what rates
2. Can set own schedule
3. Freedom to work remotely

 

If you are pondering that only small companies work with freelancers, then you are wrong. Some of the biggest companies like Facebook, IBM and BBC worldwide hire freelancer sites to complete the work on time. 

 

2) Collaboration 

As connectivity increases, the number of platforms which involves employees, employers and clients have also risen. Mentioning your coworkers and chatting with them helps to connect at a certain level. 

For example, a project manager would have to organize copywriters, editors, and designers as well as feedback from clients and stakeholders. Copywriters might have to communicate through Slack or Google Docs, while clients can follow up via mail or Trello. 

It is better not to wait for clients and team members to send feedback through multiple channels, rather the collaboration solution centralizes communications and cuts down the inefficiency, time-consuming schedules.

 

3) Work-life balance

As the work has increased in the past few years, employees find themselves working even after the workday ends. Hence, the need for employees to stay connected with each other has always placed pressure on employees to be connected.

Imagine yourself forced to work outside the office. Both your productivity and morale can take a hit. 

Millennials turn less loyal to their employers than their old counterparts and put stress on their perfect interests. These days companies are providing employers with the opportunity and the ability to choose their own colors or provide work from home.

Nowadays employers understand the pressure being placed upon their employees. They are offering flexible schedules to accommodate their doctor appointments, family events, and other personal events. 

4) Traditional Performance Views

Generally, performance views are held once a year. At year-end, you would typically receive a score that detailed how well your performance matched the job’s responsibilities. This process is inefficient, also damages morale as employees who thought they were performing well all year long sometimes go blindsided with negative reviews. Hence nowadays, employers have started conducting regular reviews so that the work doesn’t go futile. 

 

Co-working spaces and managed offices have proved to adapt the modern-day work style.