Technology isn’t just something nice to have in your office anymore. Workplace tech has become a must-have element in any successful office fit out project. Whether you’re looking to boost productivity or enhance employee wellbeing, the tech you choose can make all the difference between a standard office and one that really works.
In this blog post, we explore some of the key reasons why AV and tech are such a pivotal part of any office interior design. We also share some tips on what types of technology to consider adding to your workspace.
Tech is as important as furniture
When planning an office fit out, it’s tempting to get caught up in how everything will look, where the furniture will go and what decor you choose. Those things matter, of course, but don’t let tech slip down your priority list.
Bolting on technology as an afterthought will only lead to problems with how the office is used, workflow issues and ultimately, spending more money than you needed to resolve them.
The most effective office planning starts with thoroughly assessing what technology your business actually needs. Think about not just what works for today but what might be coming down the pipeline for your business or in your industry.
Things change fast in the digital world, so taking a flexible, future-proof approach from the beginning will set you up for long-term success. Consider building in modular systems that allow for easy upgrades, plenty of power for increasing device use, and reconfigurable cabling setups. Getting this right from the start saves a lot of money and hassle compared to trying to retrofit solutions later.
Technology, the great facilitator
Today’s employees don’t want or expect technology to be a struggle or an option. They expect the right tools and tech to be there to allow them to function and collaborate effectively and seamlessly.
A well-designed office fit out scheme incorporates tech that helps people move smoothly between different types of work and locations. This provides space users with choice and control over where, when and how they perform tasks throughout the day.
Take meeting rooms, for example. Meeting room technology and high-quality audiovisual equipment should enable remote and resident teams to connect and collaborate without wasting time battling with insufficient tech resources.
Smart booking systems, as another example, can help businesses optimise the use of their work settings and foster a more fluid approach to traffic flow and space management. This is something we recently included as part of an office fit out project the Penketh Interiors team completed for JB Leitch.
At JB Leitch’s Liverpool office, we introduced the Condeco room booking app and scheduling software so that users can book all hot desks and residential desks ahead of time. This will help the business effectively manage how the office is used and gather insights on when specific spaces are most popular.
Read the full JB Letich case study >>
Don’t overlook the basics, either. A reliable network connection is critical to strong productivity, motivation and focus. From speedy internet to good Wi-Fi coverage throughout your space, these things might not be visible in your design, but they’re essential in making everything work.
Supporting hybrid work
With hybrid working becoming the new normal and business owners looking for ways to embrace these modern modes of work, offices need to rethink how they use and provide workplace tech. This includes things like specific hybrid meeting room technology.
Desk booking apps and hot-desking tech can help manage the flow of people, making sure everyone can find a spot that suits what they’re doing that day. In larger commercial offices, interactive maps can help people navigate the space efficiently, which is particularly beneficial to visitors who aren’t familiar.
Smart storage with digital access is another brilliant example of contemporary office tech. This helps maximise space while keeping personal belongings secure, which is perfect if your team members don’t require permanent personal storage.
Supporting employee wellbeing
A thoughtful office fit out isn’t just about efficiency and performance – it should also help your team feel their best and feel that they’re supported. Smart lighting that adjusts with the natural daylight can boost mood and energy, while good climate control keeps everyone comfortable no matter where they’re sitting.
Sound management is often overlooked as part of office design but it makes a huge difference. Acoustically enhanced furnishing and soundproof pods are examples of affordable non-tech ways to control noise.
However, if excess noise is a big problem and you have the budget, sound masking systems are a great investment. This can help reduce distraction and unpleasant experiences for those overstimulated by a lot of noise, especially in open-plan spaces.
Going green
As environmental concerns move up the priority list for businesses, technology can help create greener office spaces. Smart building systems can optimise energy usage by controlling lights, heating, and cooling based on when people are actually there.
When planning your office, look for tech that can help reduce your environmental footprint. From energy-efficient appliances to systems that cut unnecessary power use, these elements help both the planet and your bottom line.
AI in the workplace
One of the most exciting and innovative things about modern workplace tech is how it can show you exactly how your space is being used. Occupancy sensors and usage tracking systems provide real insights that can help you make smart adjustments and plan better for future office projects.
This information lets you make decisions based on real patterns of how and when people are using various different settings, rather than guessing. Over time, this approach can lead to much better use of your space and save you money too.
Read more: What does AI mean for the future of office design?
Must-have tech for modern offices
Whether you’re completely relocating or just refreshing your current space, remember that the most successful office projects balance look and feel with smart technology integration.
Here are some key tech categories to consider:
Team collaboration
- Video conferencing facilities: Clear cameras, high-quality mics, and displays that make remote meetings stress-free.
- Interactive screens: Touchscreen solutions that make presentations and collaboration more engaging.
- Wireless sharing: Easy ways to share content from different devices.
- Digital whiteboards: Letting everyone contribute ideas, whether they’re in the office or working remotely.
Space management
- Room and desk booking tools: Digital systems that make space usage more efficient.
- Visitor check-in systems: Streamlining arrivals and ensuring tight security.
- Occupancy trackers: Showing you real-time data on how space is being used.
- Digital signs: Sharing important information and helping people navigate the space.
Smart fit out features
- Intelligent lighting: Adjusting brightness based on natural light and how many people are in the space (and where).
- Intuitive climate control: Keeping temperature and air quality at an optimum level.
- Access control: Secure entry systems that work with a wider security infrastructure.
- Energy tracking: Monitoring usage to find ways to be more efficient to help cut costs and become more sustainable.
- Personalisation options: Tech that lets people control their immediate surroundings.
Connectivity
- Good cabling systems: This keeps everything ticking over and seamlessly connected.
- Solid Wi-Fi: Business-grade wireless that works in all work settings.
- Network security: Protecting your data with proper firewalls and access controls.
- Plenty of power: Strategically placed outlets and charging spots for maximum flexibility.
Want to talk to us about tech?
Technology isn’t an optional extra in office design anymore—it’s a must-have that should be woven into every aspect of your office fit out project. From supporting flexible work to improving wellbeing and helping sustainability, the tech in your workspace directly impacts how effective it is.
By putting workplace technology at the heart of your office planning, you create an environment that not only meets your current needs but can also evolve along with your business. In a world where change is constant, this adaptability might be the most valuable feature your office can have.
Successfully incorporating technology into an office fit out needs good teamwork between different specialists. Interior designers, IT folks, facilities managers, and workplace strategists need to collaborate to create a space where technology enhances rather than fights with the overall design.
This approach ensures that technology doesn’t just work correctly but also contributes positively to how your workspace looks and feels.
Get in touch to chat with our office AV and technology specialist, Martin Taylor, who can help you find the right technology for your working environment.
