Coworking space: Factors to Consider Before Selecting One

New firms on the planet are growing at very high rates, as are alternative workplaces. Those are the outcomes of policies encouraging the growth of companies and technologies, and the greater acceptance of remote work. It is worth noting that the coworking spaces in Dubai Marina are among the most thriving worldwide.

In this article, we will analyze how to choose a coworking space. Let us address the following aspects:

1. What is a coworking space?
2. General classification of the types of coworking spaces
3. What factors should you evaluate to choose the best coworking space?
4. How help you find out the best coworking space?

1. What is a Coworking Space?

Coworking spaces in Dubai Marina have been among the winners of the growth of alternative workspaces businesses, produced by recent developments in the economy, technology, and remote working.

They are, in practice, places that provide freedom and productivity, sharing all the equipment at affordable costs. In addition, tenants benefit beyond renting a room because they can contact and collaborate with freelancers, entrepreneurs, and other professionals.

1.1 What is not a coworking space?

A coworking space is not just an office for sharing rooms and the Internet nor a dark place full of desks that share a kitchen and a break room. Coworking is a working system that can be individual or collaborative, full-time or part-time, and has many possible configurations.

Each coworking place has an operator who gives it a personal view. As a result, each space is different in personality, culture, and professional approach.

Generally, one of its characteristic elements is favoring collaboration and the creation of networks among the tenants. Because of that, any coworking space will have an open-concept design that allows, even partially, to share the rooms that clients agree to rent.

1.2 Possible configurations of a coworking place

These workspaces are physical construction for professionals and small groups that require safe, convenient locations to operate without distractions, such as those that affect them at home or in a coffee shop.

To clarify, they are not only for start-ups and budding entrepreneurs but also for large companies that want to save money and stimulate the creativity of their employees. It is about receiving energy from other entrepreneurs, in attractive places, and at excellent prices.

Thus, if you decide to enter these projects, first, you could choose the specialized coworking space you want. Nowadays, they are available for almost every theme. For example, there are spaces dedicated to technology companies, women, lawyers, creative people, mentors, advocacy groups, and the like.

You decide your daily time of presence and your level of collaboration with other tenants. Finally, you must rent the type of space you want to use, following the classification below.

2. General classification of coworking spaces

A flexible coworking space provider can offer you the ability to customize everything, including the layout of the space and even the services to receive. Consequently, you can have specific options for the type of space you will occupy.

Usually, the offer is compound of three types of coworking spaces:

1. Shared desks (hot desks)
2. Dedicated desks
3. Private offices

Hot desking is often on a first-come, first-served basis, and all you need is a laptop to get started. Dedicated (or fixed) desks ensure you have a secure spot all the time. Also, they tend to come with a few drawers for storage.

The third type, a private office, is the most expensive, but they give you privacy, relaxation, and ample storage space if you work with many physical files and folders.

2.1 What type of coworking are you looking for?

Coworking is not the same for everyone. As we said above, you must decide what level of privacy and collaboration you want:

• Hot desking is especially popular with freelancers. You will sit next to someone new every day. An option if you enjoy frequently changing your desktop view. Keep in mind that you will have to pack your stuff at the end of the day.
• If you are looking to create your own space but still want to be close to other entrepreneurs and creatives, then a fixed desk can be a better option. You will share the workspace but still be able to keep the comforts at your desk overnight.
• Finally, renting a private office in a coworking center is the best if you are looking for both privacy and the benefits of collaboration.

3. What Factors Should You Evaluate to Choose the Best Coworking Space?

How do you choose the best coworking space that benefits your creativity, performance, and career goals? You should check the following aspects:

1. Costs
2. Location and environment
3. Ambiance
4. Amenities and other services
5. Adequate space and hours
6. Security

By carefully considering these factors, make a weighted checklist that allows you to discriminate which of the offers is closer to your ideal. You can choose with better criteria the one that suits your needs.

3.1 Costs

Many coworking places offer multiple benefits, but check which ones are in the subscription and if it fits your budget. Typically, compared to renting an office building, you can confirm that coworking spaces in Dubai Marina are significantly cheaper.

Also, consider that stable income and good clients can obtain through relations produced on sites like coworking. However, it is essential to have a budget and stick to it.

• Hidden costs

Hidden expenses can sneak up on you and must avoid them whenever possible. For example, some coworking spaces in Dubai Marina charge for printing and scanning facilities, while others offer them as part of a plan.

• Value added services

Plans can deliver personalized services that will help you work better and grow as a company. These plans should provide flexibility in structuring your private office while being mindful of financial commitments.

Companies are also looking for shared spaces where they can share a working roof with the staff of other companies while reducing operating costs.

• Membership or rent by the hour, day, or month

In general, each firm could offer different coworking packages in terms of time. You could choose to rent by the hour or for a specific day.

Depending on the rental package, you can also sign up for a monthly, quarterly, or yearly membership. If you anticipate using a coworking and collaborative space frequently, it is best to become a member. It will save you money in the long run.

• Is a trial period possible?

The best way to make sure a space is correct for you is to try it out. Ask your desired business center about a trial membership period before making longer-term commitments.

3.2 Location and Environment

Location is another factor that makes coworking places attractive. You need to identify your ideal location. The best-shared workplace would be located close to your residence in terms of transportation. Also, ask if there is any parking nearby or food and restaurant options. Choose a work area that is a quiet environment where employees can work with more focus and determination.

A relevant case is the exponential growth of foreigners requesting coworking spaces in the UAE. Hence, the analysis of the location acquires a particular connotation.

• What can you find in the area?

It is also good to consider what customers will think of your location. For example, a great place would be steps away from the most iconic sights and culture while offering a range of eating, drinking, and shopping options. Another advantage is offering comfort, time savings, and reduced displacement.

Linking with the comment about foreigners in the UAE, analysts indicate that buildings are one of its advantages, particularly in Dubai Marina, where coworking spaces have an impressive boom.

3.3 Ambience in the office

Coworking environments are as individual as the people and teams that work there. You will find all kinds of decorations.

Focus on finding a place that encourages productive work, sparks creativity, and has the potential for meaningful networking. Some could have stylish interiors, large windows, and daily amenities like artisan coffee, organic food, and fresh fruit.

It should be an environment where people work with more enthusiasm that proves to be a driving force to work with great attention. Bonding between peers from different teams in shared workspaces can inspire participants and help ease stressful situations.

When deciding on a coworking space in Dubai Marina, it will help you locate the best place for your desk away from the noise and well-lit to concentrate on your tasks.

3.4 Amenities and other services

Amenities are a factor that can make a coworking space successful. The flexible space should be complete with the necessary amenities for work. Try to find a place with good coffee, better food, and other perks.

• Basic office services

Services you can expect to find standard in a coworking office include shared desks, general technology, office furniture, office equipment, and conference rooms.

Popular office amenities you will want to look for as part of your package include a reception area, kitchenette, daily housekeeping services, trash removal, maintenance, and mail and package handling. A coworking space should also have usual amenities like coffee and tea, high-speed internet, and printing.

Most coworking places have standard office gear but request anything extra that might be useful, like chargers, whiteboards, and projectors. Verify if printing services and meeting rooms are in the cost.

• High-speed internet

Wherever you rent, have reliable Wi-Fi. It does not matter if you use the Internet for emails or upload large files to a cloud. The good part is that most coworking and collaborative spaces know this and have the Wi-Fi up-to-date.

• Available luxury services

Look if the space is suited for high-performance work, such as video monitors, Internet TV, and meeting rooms for up to 10 people. These may include fitness studios, showers, yoga, relaxation rooms, and other wellness facilities. Additionally, get the advantage of local restaurants, cafes, or social spaces because they offer opportunities to connect with colleagues or host clients.

Some offices charge extra for these services, so clarify these details with the staff.

3.5 Adequate space and access

• Size

Make sure you have enough physical space. You do want not to be in cramped conditions, so look for a coworking space with a spacious and open office layout. If not, it can cause discomfort and even distract attention. On the other hand, a too-large office can leave the ideal space and reduce the feeling of community between those who work under one roof.

• Access

It is suitable that you have 24/7 access to your chosen coworking place if you need it. Some offices only allow you access after hours if you are an enlisted partner.

Of course, your coworking space needs to be accessible at the busiest time of day. Some people are more productive in the mornings, others when it is dark. Find out the opening hours of the place so you can plan your time effectively and be flexible.

3.6 Security

In the same way, being confident in the safety of your person, your assets, and your work is very relevant. Similarly, you will want to have a space where feeling safe to leave your work during your lunch hour or even overnight. Request what are the security measures, especially if the place is open all day and all night.

4. How to Help You Find Out the Best Coworking Space?

Now that you know the right questions to ask when choosing a coworking space, it is time to explore what is available. Take your business to the next level with offices in Dubai, creating a business plan, making a professional connection, and simply having a reliable and comfortable workplace is possible.

In that sense, Connect Business Centers offers services designed to help you search for great spaces and analyze your space needs. Talk to our advisors and find out why it is so good to have our firm on your side. We can help you get a convenient location in the UAE, having quick and easy access to a clean and inspiring work setting designed to propel your career.