The trend of traditional workspaces is continuously diminishing as entrepreneurs, startups, and other companies are seeking flexible working options to boost productivity and unlock new ideas. They are reluctant to enter into a long-term contract and need a space where they can easily scale up or down their business operations with less overhead costs. Fortunately, flex office spaces help them do all of these.
Among the flex office options, office sharing and coworking spaces have emerged as the most popular solutions in Kolkata. They are great alternatives to lengthy contracts, high-priced workspaces, and lonely home offices. While sometimes they are used interchangeably, they showcase distinct concepts. Understanding the major differences between the two is key to selecting the right setup for your business needs.
What is Office Sharing?
Office sharing is a straightforward arrangement where two or more brands share the same workstation. Generally, one of those brands utilizes two-thirds of the space, and the rest is rented by smaller businesses. This is beneficial for both parties; the first party can monetize their unused workspace by subleasing it, while the other one gets full access to a professional office setup without investing too much for a private space. Some characteristics of office sharing include:
- Shared Resources: While the first party retains control, resources like recreation areas, printers, and meeting rooms are shared.
- Cost-effectiveness: Subleasing enables startups or small businesses to access premium workspaces at lower costs than taking on a lease.
- Private Work Spaces: Office sharing gives access to enclosed areas or private rooms. It often provides a designated section within a larger suite.
- Established Working Ambience: Office sharing is associated with a corporate setting, which makes it a great choice for those who want a well-structured working environment.
What Does Coworking Mean?
A coworking space is a shared working environment designed for small enterprises, freelancers, startups, remote workers, and large corporates. They provide a mix of communal areas, open desks, and private office spaces. Employees can leverage coworking spaces to work together or separately in a collective setting. A coworking space doesn’t just provide an office space; it builds a large community where members from different backgrounds can work comfortably on their projects. Some characteristics of a coworking space include:
- Various Amenities: From wellness rooms to high-speed internet connection, coworking spaces are well-equipped with top-notch amenities.
- Community Focus: Coworking emphasizes relationship-building and networking. Many spaces host social activities, events, and workshops to connect members.
- Flexible Memberships: Coworking spaces provide flexible membership plans, from daily passes to monthly plans, catering to diverse needs.
- Open-Design Layouts: Coworking spaces offer open-plan seating arrangements that foster collaboration and interaction.
- Creative Environment: Coworking spaces help create a vibrant working environment that inspires innovation and creativity.
How Does Office Sharing Differ From Coworking Spaces?
The interesting fact about coworking and is that both arrangements exist together in the same place. However, both workspaces can differ from each other in many ways such as:
1. Infrastructure
Sharing office space with other businesses means you have to consider infrastructure. Maintaining utilities like the internet, water, and electricity can take up your financial resources and valuable time. On the other hand, in a coworking space, all of them are included in your membership plan and managed by a dedicated team. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about maintenance and repairs.
2. Privacy:
In terms of privacy, office sharing wins the race. It offers an enclosed space within a large area that provides a focused work environment. A coworking space, on the other hand, focuses on openness and collaboration. Though it gives access to phone booths and private meeting zones, you will speed most of the time in a shared space surrounded by professionals.
3. Flexibility:
Lease term in a shared office space is rigid and customization is also limited. You need to pay for the private space whether you utilize it or not. For instance, if you scale down your business suddenly from 4 offices to 2, you will still be expected to pay in full even though it’s unused. Flexibility relies on the lease agreement of a primary tenant. In a coworking space like Zioks, you can easily expand your workspace from one month to the next depending on your organization’s needs.
4. Cost Structure:
As compared to a coworking space, office sharing is an expensive option. You have to pay primarily for the dedicated office space and privacy. Moreover, additional costs like shared services or resources may also apply. Coworking space, on the other hand, offers membership fees that depend on the level of space accessibility. Less additional costs make coworking space lucrative for freelancers and small business owners.
Final Words
Shared office space is ideal for those who need a structured environment with privacy, while coworking is great for those who prioritize a creative atmosphere and flexibility. Though office sharing and coworking spaces serve different purposes, they have the ability to break the barrier of traditional office constraints and embrace an adaptable way of working. Regardless of the option you select, ensure that it perfectly aligns with your business operations and long-term goals. This will help you increase productivity, efficiency, and satisfaction in your workspace.
At Zioks, they provide everything you need in one place. Whether you’re an individual or need a well-equipped workspace for 15+ people, their flexible coworking solutions, top-notch amenities, and vibrant community ensure you have the best place to work, collaborate, and grow. They aim to create a workspace tailored to all your business needs. Join them and boost your productivity in a space designed for success and innovation.
