Preparing a clear desk schedule
For teams planning individual research, the oval tabletop shape may answer one requirement while space for users to approach the workstation addresses another; the space layout shows whether both belong in the project requirements. Because a collaborative zone may be used for video calls and changing work routines, consider whether space for users to approach the workstation and the oval tabletop shape answer separate parts of the project brief. Rather than applying one rule throughout the office, review the current workstation option in each planned zone and note any difference in how the space is used. Keep the oval tabletop shape and space for users to approach the office desk together in the workstation brief. Because a meeting suite can support shared office tasks as well as video calls, assess the oval tabletop shape beside space for users to approach the workstation while keeping both personal and team work in view.
Reviewing the fit-out requirements
For workplace coordinators planning a shared office, relate space for users to approach the office desk to the oval tabletop shape, then review access to power against informal discussions before finalising the workstation specification. Before setting up online meetings in an open-plan workplace, weigh space for users to approach the office desk against the oval tabletop shape; access to the working position provides a concrete test for the planned desk. A shortlist for project leads should tie space for users to approach the selected desk to a user need and the oval tabletop shape to the proposed plan of an open-plan workplace. Set out the purpose of a busy team space, then assess the oval tabletop shape and space for users to approach the office desk against the day-to-day demands of changing work routines.
Using the filter in a project brief
When reviewing the workstation specification, consider the desk setup before and after paperwork: people need to reach it, arrange equipment and move around the area. Assess the oval tabletop shape alongside space for users to approach the selected desk before confirming the choice. People arranging a reception office should map the activity first, then decide how the oval tabletop shape and space for users to approach the workstation contribute to the workplace brief. Check the path between work areas alongside the selected desk features; together, these points show how the listed configuration fits within the planned workspace. For this desk specification, relate the oval tabletop shape to space for users to approach the office desk. A furniture plan for short team check-ins in a studio workspace should make the relationship between space for users to approach the office desk and the oval tabletop shape clear, while leaving the connection with existing finishes open for review.
