Business

How to Automate Desk Booking Systems at a Coworking Space

Published

11 months ago

October 8, 2023

As the world becomes increasingly digital, the ways we work are rapidly evolving. One such development is the rise of coworking spaces, where freelancers, startups, and remote workers share a common workspace. With this shared space comes the need for efficient desk booking. Automating this process can save both time and money, making it a valuable addition to any coworking space. In this article, we’ll delve into how to automate desk booking at a coworking space.

What are Desk Booking Systems?

Desk Booking Systems, often referred to as hot-desking systems, are digital platforms designed to automate and streamline the reservation of workspace desks. These systems have gained popularity in shared workspaces, such as coworking hubs, where the flexibility of desk usage is paramount.

Rather than assigning permanent desks to individuals, desk booking systems allow for a fluid approach where members or employees can reserve a workspace for specific time slots. With the emergence of more remote and flexible working patterns, these systems cater to a need for adaptability, ensuring that workspace resources are efficiently utilized.

How Does a Desk Booking System Work?

At the heart of modern, flexible workspaces is the desk booking system. Much like how you’d reserve a table at a restaurant or a room in a hotel, this system allows for the seamless reservation of workspace desks.

1. Interface

The gateway to any digital system is its interface, and desk booking systems are no exception.

Web Portal: Many desk booking systems start with a web-based portal. This is a dedicated website, often with a user-friendly dashboard, allowing members or employees to log in, view available desks, and make reservations.

Mobile App: In our smartphone-driven world, having a mobile application can be a game-changer. Users can book desks on the go, get push notifications, and sometimes even use the app as a digital key to access the workspace.

Integrated Software: Larger organizations might have their bespoke software ecosystems. In such cases, desk booking modules can be integrated, offering a unified user experience without the need to hop between different applications.

2. Selection

The power of choice is central to the appeal of desk booking systems.

Digital Floor Plan: Visualizing the workspace is crucial. Digital floor plans show the layout of the office, marking available and occupied desks. This representation helps users intuitively pick and choose their preferred spot.

Filter Options: Not all desks are created equal. Some might be close to the window, offering natural light. Others might be in quieter corners, ideal for focused work. Filters allow users to customize their desk search based on specific needs, be it amenities, location, or desk type.

3. Reservation

After choosing the perfect spot, the next step is to make it official. Just like booking a flight or hotel room online, users select their preferred desk and specify the duration of their reservation. Some systems also allow recurring bookings for those who want a specific desk at regular intervals.

4. Confirmation

Post-booking, it’s essential to ensure the user is fully informed.

Communication Channels: Immediately after a reservation is made, users generally receive a confirmation. This can be via email, containing all the details of the booking, or as a notification on the mobile app.

QR Codes & Digital Passes: To make access more streamlined, confirmations might come with QR codes or digital passes. Users can simply scan or show these upon arrival, verifying their reservation.

5. Check-in/Check-out

Maintaining order in a flexible workspace is important.

Check-in: To avoid ‘ghost bookings’ where a desk is reserved but not used, some systems have a check-in feature. Users confirm their presence, either through the app or at a dedicated kiosk in the workspace.

Check-out: Equally important is the check-out. This marks the end of a user’s reservation, signaling that the desk is available for others. Some systems auto-checkout users once their booking duration is over, while others might require manual check-out.

What are the Benefits of Desk Booking Systems to Coworkers?

1. Flexibility

In a rapidly changing work environment, flexibility has become a cornerstone for productivity. Desk booking systems provide coworkers with the freedom to choose their workspace each day. Instead of being constrained to a fixed spot, they can select spaces based on their specific tasks or moods.

For instance, one might opt for a quiet corner when focused work is on the agenda, or gravitate towards collaborative hubs when teamwork is the call of the day. This dynamic allocation ensures that the workspace becomes a tool tailored to the worker’s immediate needs, rather than a static fixture they must adapt to.

2. Efficiency

Time is a valuable asset, and nothing wastes it quite like wandering around in search of an available desk. In larger coworking spaces, the search can become a cumbersome task. With desk booking systems, coworkers have instant visibility into desk availability.

They can swiftly reserve a spot even before setting foot in the workspace. This proactive approach eliminates the guesswork and aimless wandering, ensuring that coworkers can get settled and start their work promptly. Over time, this efficiency can aggregate into hours, if not days, of saved time.

3. Customization

Every individual has unique work preferences. While some might thrive beside a window with natural sunlight, others might prioritize being close to power outlets for their myriad of gadgets.

Desk booking systems cater to these preferences by offering customization options. Users can filter and choose desks based on various amenities. Want to be close to the coffee machine for those regular caffeine boosts? Or perhaps near a printer for easy access? With the right system, coworkers can tailor their workspace experience, ensuring it aligns perfectly with their needs and work habits.

4. Predictability

While flexibility and spontaneity have their merits, predictability is equally important. Knowing that a reserved desk awaits can be a great source of comfort. With desk booking systems, coworkers can reserve their spots in advance, which means no unexpected surprises or last-minute scrambles for a workspace.

This predictability reduces anxiety and promotes better daily planning. If a worker knows they have a reserved spot in a collaboration hub, they can schedule team meetings with confidence. Similarly, having a quiet desk booked means they can plan deep work sessions without interruptions.

What are the Benefits of Desk Booking Systems for Managers?

1. Space Optimization

One of the fundamental challenges in managing a workspace is ensuring its design aligns with usage patterns. Desk booking systems provide managers with real-time data on which desks or areas are most frequented. If certain zones are consistently popular, it might indicate a preference for certain amenities or settings, such as proximity to windows or the presence of plants.

Conversely, less popular areas might indicate potential issues or unmet needs. With this kind of information at their fingertips, managers can make informed decisions about office layouts, ensuring they are tailored to the preferences and habits of users, thus maximizing the utility of every square foot.

2. Cost Efficiency

Real estate, especially in prime locations, can be a significant cost for businesses. Paying for space that’s underutilized isn’t just wasteful; it’s financially inefficient. Desk booking systems provide a clear picture of desk utilization rates. If certain desks or areas consistently remain unbooked, it might indicate surplus space.

This data-driven insight can guide managers in deciding whether to repurpose that space or even downsize, leading to substantial cost savings. On the flip side, consistently high booking rates might highlight the need for expansion, ensuring that growth decisions are reactive to genuine demand rather than mere speculation.

3. Enhanced Productivity

The physical layout and organization of a workspace play a pivotal role in productivity. A chaotic, overcrowded office can be a hotbed for distractions and interruptions, whereas an orderly, well-allocated space can significantly reduce friction. With desk booking systems, managers ensure that every member has their dedicated space, minimizing disruptions that come with desk searches.

Moreover, the ability to book specific desks means that teams can sit together when collaboration is essential, and individuals can find quiet corners when needed. This fluidity, guided by individual and team needs, fosters an environment where productivity can thrive.

4. Flexibility in Management

Every coworking space or office has its unique culture and rules. Desk booking systems provide managers with the tools to implement and enforce these rules efficiently. For instance, if there’s a policy to prevent desk hogging, managers can set maximum booking durations.

If there’s a need to rotate teams to foster cross-team collaboration, managers can set up booking rotations. The system’s inherent flexibility means that it can be tailored to specific managerial philosophies and objectives, ensuring that the workspace not only serves its users but also aligns with broader organizational goals.

5. Data Insights

Beyond the immediate task of desk bookings, these systems serve as a rich source of data. Through analytics, managers can glean insights into patterns of usage, employee preferences, peak booking times, and other valuable metrics.

This data can help in refining strategies, predicting future needs, and making proactive decisions to enhance the workspace environment. The continuous stream of data ensures that the decision-making process is dynamic and responsive to the evolving needs of the organization and its employees.

Conclusion

Automating desk booking in a coworking space is not merely a matter of convenience; it’s a transformative strategy that can significantly enhance operational efficiency, user experience, and space optimization. By leveraging technology, coworking spaces can ensure a seamless reservation process, reduce manual errors, and gain valuable insights into workspace utilization.

As the demand for flexible workspaces continues to grow, it becomes imperative for such spaces to adopt smart and automated solutions. Embracing automated desk booking is not just about staying relevant in an evolving market but also about creating an environment where productivity and innovation can thrive unhindered. Whether you manage a coworking space or are a patron, the benefits of this automation are manifold and well worth the investment.

Business

Announcing The Best Futures Brokers In The UK For 2024

Published

1 month ago

August 8, 2024

William Immelt

Announcing the best futures brokers in the UK for 2024. According to recent data, there were over 1.2 billion global futures and options outstanding contracts at the end of 2023. With a 15% increase from 2022, many buyers are looking to trade futures like indices, currencies, and commodities. Indeed, this financial contract allows traders to buy an asset at a set date and price. As a trader yourself, you need to know the best futures brokers UK. This way, you can find a secure, well-regulated platform without worrying about price fluctuations. Read on to learn about the best futures brokers in the UK for 2024.

Vantage Markets

First, Vantage Markets is one of the top FCA-regulated futures brokers in the United Kingdom. Trade a wide range of assets like forex, commodities, and precious metals. Plus, trade bonds, indices, and ETFs as well. In addition, Vantage Markets also has a wide range of tools – including custom charts and trading calculators. Trade on robust platforms like MT4, MT5, and ProTrader. Plus, access to low trading costs, 24-hour customer support, and negative balance protection. With Vantage Market’s V-Social app, you can also chat with other traders to ask questions and auto-copy experienced investors. In short, consider Vantage Markets as you consider the best futures brokers in the UK.

Interactive Brokers UK

Next, Interactive Brokers is another one of the best futures broker platforms in the United Kingdom. Trade a wide range of futures asset classes – like agriculture, metals, and energy. Plus, trade commodity futures on over thirty global market centers. With powerful trading tools like SpreadTrader, you can also manage your futures positions directly on the Trader Workstation platform. Leverage the ComboTrader tool to create robust order strategies. Or, choose from templates and pre-set programs to execute your futures trades. Of course, you can also learn more about broker reviews and comparisons on news sites like BrokerageToday.com. Undoubtedly, consider Interactive Brokers as you choose your futures broker UK platform.

FXPro

In addition, consider FXPro as you choose the best futures brokerage UK. With this platform, you can access over 70 global exchanges. Plus, trade on a wide range of asset classes – like commodities, forex, and indices. Importantly, FXPro is also regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Cyprus Securities Exchange Commission (CySec). This way, you can access safe, well-trusted accounts with tier-one banks. Plus, utilize educational webinars and market analysis tools to improve your trading strategy. Of course, you can also take advantage of low commissions and innovative tech solutions. Consider FXPro as you choose the best futures brokers in the UK.

NinjaTrader

Moreover, NinjaTrader is another one of the top futures brokers UK for 2024. Indeed, many traders prefer this platform for its low margins and commissions. Plus, take advantage of a $0 minimum deposit. In addition, NinjaTrader offers multi-device cloud-based technology, so you can trade easily across your devices. For example, trade on PC, Mac, and mobile operating systems. Plus, customize your trading experience with over a thousand third-party add-on options. Notably, NinjaTrader also provides access to E-mini indexes – one of the world’s most popular futures markets. Surely, consider NinjaTrader as you choose the best futures broker in the UK.

Optimus Futures

Furthermore, Optimus Futures is another one of the best future brokers United Kingdom to consider in 2024. Indeed, you can access competitive commissions and margin rates. Plus, expect a transparent fee schedule – so you know when you’re making payments. With Optimus Futures’s demo account, you can also test the broker’s futures trading before you invest in any funds. Since Optimus Futures has a $500 minimum deposit, open the demo account to ensure you like the platform beforehand. Of course, you can also leverage educational resources and customer support if you need additional platform support. Surely, Optimus Futures is one of the top futures brokers UK to consider in 2024.

There are several best futures brokers UK in 2024. First, consider Vantage Markets to trade a wide range of assets like forex, bonds, and indices. Next, Interactive Brokers UK also offers powerful trading tools like SpreadTrader and ComboTrader. In addition, FXPro is another well-trusted, FCA-regulated broker to securely trade your assets. Of course, many traders also prefer NinjaTrader for their low commissions and margins. Furthermore, Optimus Futures is another one of the top platforms for its transparent fee schedule. Consider the points above to learn about the best futures brokers UK in 2024.

Business

LinkedIn Rolls Out AI Assistant for Premium Members

Published

3 months ago

June 22, 2024

Daniel Egusa

LinkedIn Rolls Out AI Assistant for Premium Members

LinkedIn is currently testing an AI assistant for its Premium members, integrating Microsoft’s advanced AI technology. This initiative marks LinkedIn’s first significant consumer-facing AI product, expanding beyond its traditional enterprise-focused services.

Why It Matters: This development places LinkedIn alongside other social platforms like Snapchat and Instagram, which have already introduced similar AI features. The move underscores a growing trend where social networks leverage AI to enhance user engagement and provide personalized experiences.

Background: Previously, LinkedIn launched several AI tools aimed at recruiters and job seekers, including AI-assisted candidate discovery and AI-powered coaching tools. The tease of a consumer AI assistant last year set the stage for this broader rollout to Premium users, which has been picking up pace in recent weeks.

Details of the AI Assistant: The AI assistant feature on LinkedIn prompts users to explore more about companies or topics mentioned in posts within their feeds. This feature combines insights from LinkedIn’s vast user base and data from Microsoft’s Bing search engine to deliver comprehensive information.

How Does It Work?

When users interact with a feed prompt, they’re directed to a chat interface where they can ask the AI assistant for further details. This interaction is labeled as “Powered by Bing,” ensuring transparency about the source of the information. The responses are tailored to the user’s professional background and skills, enhancing the relevance of the information provided.

Privacy and Personalization: The chat feature includes a disclaimer about its beta status and potential for errors, with a note that Microsoft’s privacy policy may apply. This is part of LinkedIn’s effort to maintain transparency and user trust as it rolls out new AI capabilities.

LinkedIn’s introduction of this AI assistant is just one part of a broader strategy to integrate more AI-driven tools into its platform. These tools are designed to connect users with relevant content and insights, potentially accelerating career growth and enhancing professional networking.

As AI technology continues to evolve, platforms like LinkedIn are finding innovative ways to harness these advancements to benefit their users. This new AI assistant for Premium members could transform how professionals interact with content and gather insights on LinkedIn, making it a critical tool for career development.

Business

Harold Goldstein’s and Lilo Alfaro’s Practical Approach to Social Responsibility

Published

6 months ago

March 7, 2024

William Watson

At the heart of organizational success lies a partnership between leadership and social responsibility. It’s not just a corporate checkbox; it’s where the influence of leadership goes beyond business boundaries.

Lilo Alfaro and Harold Goldstein of OPAD Consulting have unique stories that exemplify such influence. These leaders bring diverse experiences and perspectives, going beyond organizational growth and societal impact.

Social responsibility in the corporate world fosters positive public perception and builds trust. It benefits communities and enhances employee morale, creating a more sustainable and ethical business environment.

Harold Goldstein’s Perspective

Harold’s journey to executive roles in big companies like Levi and Johnson & Johnson has shaped his perspective. These experiences provided the foundation for his current role as CEO at OPAD, where he emphasizes social responsibility as providing “direction, process, and accountability.”

Social responsibility impacts organizations by fostering positive public perception, building trust, and enhancing employee morale. In an interview, Harold delved into the nuances of fear within organizations. He acknowledges leaders’ accidental creation of fear that hinders taking social responsibility.

Therefore, he leads his company with humility and transparency, creating an environment where fear is recognized and managed. This provides OPAD’s workforce with a chance to thrive in their careers.

Presently on the board of Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, Harold is committed to creating long-term positive change through a holistic approach to social responsibility.

Lilo Alfaro’s Outlook

Lilo Alfaro has BAs in Theatre, Technical Design and Production, and Business Management. Additionally, she has completed an MBA with a focus on Social Innovation. She has diverse experience in business, including her work as a consultant for large, national companies like The Kroger Company, mid-sized semiconductor corporations like Pure Wafer, and local nonprofits like Portland Experimental Theatre Ensemble and Our Children Oregon.

She showcases exceptional organizational and management skills. From managing city-wide festivals like the “Vanport Mosaic Spring Festival” to conventions such as “Ghosts of Summer,” Lilo displays strong responsibility and leadership qualities. Her approach seamlessly combines discipline, creativity, and a solid commitment to social responsibility.

Lilo’s commitment to social responsibility goes beyond the corporate world. Her involvement in producing legacy educational events for Portland’s Black Panther Party Chapter and volunteering at national nonprofits shows a hands-on approach.

OPAD’s Pro Bono Work

Harold and Lilo, through OPAD, have also actively engaged in pro bono work for many organizations dedicated to children’s advocacy, homelessness prevention, disability services, and social justice.

According to Harold and Lilo, “Our devotion to pro bono initiatives stems from a belief that true leadership extends beyond boardroom walls. It’s about using our skills to uplift communities and spark meaningful change.”

They’ve helped some not-for-profits such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, Children First for Oregon, and Northwest Children’s Theatre & School. Through university mentorship programs, they have nurtured many aspiring professionals and students with knowledge and guidance.

A Final Word

From diverse experiences, OPAD emphasizes transparent, fear-free work environments and a deep commitment to community engagement and societal betterment. Harold Goldstein and Lilo Alfaro, the driving force behind OPAD Consulting, shape organizational success while actively contributing to social change.