Picture this: you and your team are in a conference room. You have an hour. And you need to come up with the next big idea before the bell rings.

Some may call this scenario a “brainstorm,” but isn’t it more like a meeting? Those two things don’t always agree with each other, which means it’s time to rethink the way we collaborate and generate new ideas.

As so much about work has changed over the past 18 months, so too has our focus on what brings out the best in us. We’ve talked often about productivity, comfort, support...but what about setting your team up for success in a brainstorm?

You may be surprised to hear that furniture is one component that can make a legitimate difference.

Featured Product: Astir^™

What Are the Key Ingredients for a Good Brainstorm?

If you’ve been in a brainstorm that feels rushed or forced, you’re not alone. Or, maybe you’ve been in a meeting room or workspace that’s simply not conducive to creativity and inspiration (you can read more about that here).

The generation of new ideas is important for any business, as it helps to move the needle on your biggest projects. When you create a space that facilitates these concepts, everyone benefits.

So, what’s on the checklist for better brainstorming?

1. Welcome a variety of perspectives and foster inclusivity
2. Real, visual collaboration whether you’re in person or remote
3. Following up with an action plan

Brainstorming is when and where we bring people and their ideas together. It’s when we work as a team to find the best possible solutions and creative ways forward.

However, we know that if your team isn’t comfortable in a space, or is not supported by the furniture within it, odds are that productive brainstorming and collaboration will be a challenge. Let’s talk about which HON solutions can make a positive change.

Featured Product: Astir^™

What Does a Quality Collaborative Space Look Like?

Dedicated workstations for employees need to be modern, supportive and designed with quality furniture. Ideally, they’ll blend the best of home with the best of the office and make people feel comfortable.

One of the main reasons for wanting to return to the office, according to several studies, is that employees miss being around their coworkers. They miss the interactions, the collaboration and the camaraderie.

Being back in the office, however, means that creating a space for that teamwork or brainstorming will look different than it has in the past.

On top of design and layout, the size of the space itself is a factor. With a full-sized office, you may have more flexibility to do something creative. Smaller offices will have to be more nimble to maximize the footprint, so everyone who uses it can benefit from the space.

Featured Product: Workwall

Put Your Plan Into Action, and Find the Office Furniture That Works for You

Let’s return to the checklist, while taking into consideration the type of space you have.

For item No. 1, your space’s setup and design is a focal point. When you can support a variety of work styles and preferences, everyone can bring their best to the table.

Astir™ Collaborative Work is a HON collection geared toward better brainstorming—and promoting a safer, more innovative way to get together.

Astir™ is a soft seating solution that allows you to create a variety of setups for your space. If individual workspaces are needed, Astir™ can be configured accordingly. Astir™ also pairs perfectly with Birk™ tables for a more communal feel, which can be integrated anywhere in the office.

For real, visual collaboration, Workwall by HON is a great addition to any space. You can truly make Workwall yours, and assemble an all-in-one tack zone solution that is ideal for individual work, quick meetings or a full-fledged brainstorm. Brand new in 2021, Workwall is available with a media tile option, making it easy for your employees to connect, no matter where they work.

After the brainstorm, it’s time to get the wheels in motion. Furniture that’s dynamic and easy to reconfigure in different arrangements gives employees a dynamic space in which to connect—whether it’s a conference room or common area. Task chairs like Cliq™ and Solve® will fit in any space, while the West Hill™ collection brings a home-like feel to your office.

No matter which furniture you choose, better brainstorming isn’t far behind.

Featured Product: Astir^™

Get on the Right Path to Better Collaboration in the Workplace

It’s easier than you think.

Collaboration and brainstorming are definitely changing, but the right combination of design and function will set employees up to do their best work, wherever they’re working.

Want to get started on a new, inspiring space for your team to brainstorm the next big idea? Get in touch with us at hon.com.