According to a recent survey on power preferences at work conducted by Harris Poll for Legrand, 77% of office workers find issues related to power/charging options in their workplace frustrating. With the rise of mobile technology and more millennials in the workforce, productivity depends on effective charging solutions. Architects, specifiers, designers and facility managers need to implement power and charging solutions that really addresses what frustrates employees and promote the use of smartphones and tablets with smart design.
Here are three tips for architects, specifiers, designers and facility managers to consider when designing or renovating a commercial office space, courtesy of Legrand:
Out With The Old, In With The New
The survey revealed 83% of office workers believe it would be more convenient to have an easily accessible USB port to power and charge devices. Traditional outlets aren’t enough anymore. Eliminate the bulky adapter with combination receptacles that include both USB ports and traditional outlets; all USB options, including USB-A and USB-C.
Design For Versatility
Historically, workers had to plug-in to a power source on the wall to charge. Not anymore. With the Desktop Power Center from Legrand (pictured above), charging options can be installed directly on employee’s desks, rather than on the floor or in the wall. The Desktop Power Center can be installed in meeting rooms as well, helping to prioritize accessible power for multiple devices throughout the office. When asked if easily accessible power/charging options are a high priority in meeting rooms, 72% of millennials said yes.
Install Devices That Promote Fast Charging
With so many options on the market, it’s tempting to reach for cheaper alternatives. But outlets and ports need to be reliable and safe. Look for options with extensive testing that meet NEC standards. Specifying discount products wear down faster causing plugs to fall out or recharge devices slower over time. Quality receptacles keep productivity at a high.
