| Freestanding modular office furniture (also referred to | | | | additional furniture or accessory pieces, find out what |
| as contemporary office furniture) is different from | | | | pieces can be ordered later. Ask if there is any |
| workstation or cubicle furniture. The difference is that | | | | chance of that particular furniture line being |
| freestanding furniture is not panel-mounted (attached | | | | discontinued. |
| to panels). However, this type of freestanding furniture | | | | Many Choices - There are so many options available |
| can be used in a "bullpen" situation, which is a | | | | in style, materials, finishes, etc. Every major furniture |
| workspace for several people surrounded by panels | | | | manufacturer has their own version of modular office |
| for privacy. | | | | furniture. If you are shopping for a few pieces and |
| New office furniture can be a major purchase for your | | | | know what you want, you can shop at your local |
| company, and you should consider all options before | | | | office supply store or catalog. However, if you are |
| making a final decision. | | | | considering a major purchase I suggest that you go |
| Some of the advantages of modular office furniture | | | | directly to your local office furniture dealership. If you |
| are: | | | | are using an architectural or design firm, they can |
| Cost Savings - The obvious savings is in the cost of | | | | make suggestions also. |
| the panels. However, there will also be a substantial | | | | Flexibility - Since flexibility is usually a consideration |
| savings on installation charges. | | | | when using modular furniture, you may want to |
| Easily Moved/Reconfigured - If you have a | | | | consider incorporating some mobile furniture pieces into |
| maintenance staff, they can handle moving modular | | | | your configuration. |
| office furniture around as little, if any, knockdown and | | | | This type of office furniture encourages team work |
| reassembly is required. Think about this when you are | | | | and is particularly effective when staff shares |
| in the early decision-making stages. | | | | equipment, files, or other office essentials. |
| Additional Pieces - If you think you may want to add | | | | |