Drop-in workspaces are gaining popularity as more businesses prioritise flexibility. This on-demand option allows you to access a workspace without a booking or a lengthy contract.
Our article will explore the definition of a drop-in workspace and answer the most frequently asked questions to help you decide if it's the right option for your business.
What Is a Drop-In Workspace?
A drop-in workspace is a type of workspace that you can walk into and use immediately without a prior booking or contract. These spaces are fully equipped with desks and internet and can be used for as long as you like.
How Do Drop-In Desks Compare to Coworking Spaces and Private Serviced Offices?
Even though drop-in desks and coworking spaces may appear similar, they have a different format. Drop-in spaces are a pay-as-you-go option which you can use without a reservation.
A coworking membership means you pay on a monthly basis for a dedicated desk or a hot desk.
Private serviced offices, whilst also a plug-and-play option, require a longer contract to be signed and offer a private workspace rather than a desk in a shared environment.
What Are the Key Benefits?
Flexibility
Drop-in workspaces offer unparalleled flexibility. You can easily scale up your office usage as your business requires, whether for team collaborations, project-based work or during unexpected busy periods.
Cost Efficiency
The pay-as-you-go model allows you to pay only for the time and space you use, lowering overheads compared to traditional office leases.
Access To Prime Locations
Drop-in workspaces can be found in most major cities in the UK, including London. Areas such as Shoreditch, Canary Wharf, and Kings Cross are key hubs for drop-in workspaces, allowing businesses access to prestigious postcodes and excellent transport links.
Amenities
These spaces are fitted with high-speed internet and meeting rooms so you can start working immediately. Some spaces offer printing, scanning, and administrative support to streamline your workflow.
Convenience
The on-demand nature of these workspaces makes them very convenient. Drop-in desks offer fantastic convenience if you need a professional space to work, a venue to meet a client or a temporary workspace.
How Much Does a Drop-In Workspace Cost?
The cost of a drop-in workspace in the UK can start from around £30 per day. This will depend on the location, the duration, and the on-site facilities available. In popular areas like Central London, office prices are generally higher.
What Types of Companies Use Drop-In Workspaces?
Startups & Freelancers
The dynamic nature of startups may result in a sudden need for more office space with a limited budget. Drop-in workspaces are perfect for this uncertainty.
Freelancers also benefit from drop-in desks as they may have seasonal projects which require a temporary workspace.
Creative Industries
Many creative industries benefit from drop-in spaces for collaborative projects, especially when working with hybrid/remote teams.
Established Organisations
Drop-in workspaces allow established companies to explore new markets without committing to a long-term contract for office space.
What Should I Consider When Looking for a Drop-In Workspace?
Location & Accessibility
Ensure the workspace is in a convenient location for your team and potential clients.
Onsite Amenities
Check that the space includes high-speed internet and comfortable desks and chairs. If you require additional features such as meeting rooms with video conferencing or onsite parking, ensure you check this in advance.
Pricing
As mentioned, drop-in workspaces in prime locations can be more expensive, but by comparing prices, you may be able to find a similar location which is more cost effective.
Atmosphere
Many drop-in workspaces offer different atmospheres. If you are a creative company, you may find that you prefer to be surrounded by similar companies. On the other hand, financial firms may benefit from a quieter environment.
How Do I Integrate Drop-In Workspaces into My Business?
1. Assess Your Business Requirements
Evaluate your current work patterns and identify when and why your business might need an alternative to a permanent office. Client meetings, temporary projects and a change of scenery for remote workers are all reasons why organisations have opted for drop-in spaces.
It is also important to define your goals for a drop-in workspace. Do you want to reduce overheads, move to a prime location, or boost employee satisfaction?
2. Find A Range of Spaces in Your Chosen Area
Finding a range of drop-in spaces in your chosen area can help you pinpoint the best locations for your team to work from.
3. Test the Drop-In Spaces
Encourage your team members to test a few drop-in spaces. Gather feedback about how easily they could access the spaces, the quality of the amenities and the atmosphere. This is the best way to find out if drop-in workspaces meet your expectations.
4. Establish Clear Internal Policies
Your internal policies should outline when and how your employees should use the spaces. For example, if there are times that employees should not meet clients, e.g. during peak periods, this should be outlined in the policies.
5. Implement Expense Management Tools
As drop-in desks are a pay-as-you-go option, it is important to track their usage to monitor costs. Ensure all employees are aware of how to track these expenses and if there are any reimbursement procedures.
6. Gather Feedback
The key to successfully integrating a drop-in workspace is to gather your employees' feedback regularly. Find out what works, what doesn’t, and if there are any areas for improvement.
Drop-in workspaces offer a fully flexible and cost-effective solution for businesses in London and the UK. They are ideal for startups and well-established organisations looking for an alternative to a private office.
By understanding the key benefits, costs and how to integrate a drop-in space into your business, you can decide whether it is the most suitable set-up for you.
