We recently spoke about how to impress customers with cool technologies like smart payment systems and augmented reality, but remember that the success of your business doesn’t simply rest on consumer impressions. There’s just as significant an incentive to wow the teams that make your operations possible. And, some pretty cool office-based technologies could see you doing that, too. 

By this, we aren’t simply referring to the technological office options you probably have in place already, such as Cloud environments and collaborative software, but rather the ever-emerging technological advances that make office life easier for everyone. 

Some of these might sound like something from an episode of Star Trek, but companies are starting to use them in the office with great success. Keep reading to discover what they are and how you can make them work for your team. 

# 1 – Unified Security Solutions

Security is increasingly important for offices that handle more data than ever before, but your teams will never work at their best if disparate security systems like convoluted access control and disparate permissions continually hinder them. 

Nowadays, there’s also no need to settle for these setbacks because smart, unified security systems offer an entirely different way of working while increasing office safety overall. Working with access control system vendors like Genetec is especially useful, as they provide comprehensive physical security technologies, including innovative access controls that can be fully integrated with other key security tech features like number plate recognition and video surveillance. As a result, your approved team members will be readily checked in to start work each day without delay. 

# 2 – Smarter Meeting Rooms

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Few things look less professional or become more time-consuming than double-booking your meeting rooms. And, guess what? Technology can help you with this issue, too!

Smart meeting rooms can come complete with room scheduling systems that eliminate this embarrassing issue. Pre-loaded smart screens can then be located outside of each meeting room. Team members will be able to reserve meeting space in moments via a solution that’s fully integrated with the company calendar. Team efficiency and positive client impressions are sure to increase as a result. 

# 3 – Desk Sensors

Ever wondered how you could increase space efficiency in the office? Integrated desk sensors are one option to help you do that. By letting you know occupancy rates for things like hotdesks or communal working areas, these sensors ensure you can always avoid overcrowding and make workday planning and employee placements far easier to handle. 

Connected systems that see desk sensors sending information straight to your desktop can also enable more effective desk allocation in collaborative areas. This could prove invaluable in offices that manage a hybrid workforce where employees aren’t always around. 

# 4 – HVAC Zoning

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Do you remember the fallout a few years ago when it turned out that office HVAC systems are typically set to a standard temperature based on all-male studies? This threw initial questions on whole-office temperatures that will never suit everyone. In addition to gender, factors like the side of the building employees sit on or even how close they are to windows can all impact temperature and comfort levels. 

That’s why all offices could benefit from smart HVAC systems which, as well as automatically adjusting temperatures based on daily conditions, make ‘zone control’ possible. This means that it’s easier to set different HVAC settings for each building section based on everything from the preferences of the people who work there to expected occupancy and so on. In addition to keeping everyone a bit more comfortable. For HVAC businesses, considering the integration of modern tools such as software for HVAC contractors can enhance operational efficiency and streamline tasks like invoicing and estimating.

How do you tell which new technologies your teams need?

No one can deny that any of these tech-based additions could enhance office life, but your finances probably won’t stretch to cover them all right away, so which do you choose? 

In truth, it all depends on your budget. Your company needs should also come into account across considerations that include – 

• Current pain points such as outdated systems or convoluted processes
• Business objectives, like whether you intend to implement hybrid working or simply speed up processes
• Employee feedback that lets you know exactly what your teams want 

Consider these, and plan where your budget is best spent to ensure your entire office is happier, thanks to these new technologies.