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The concept of co-working is not new – even in South Africa. But the benefits of this way of working may not be fully comprehended yet. And despite the headwind a company like WeWork has recently received, the South African model of sharing working space is taking off. Look at Workshop17, for example.
Why it makes sense in South Africa
When you consider the high cost of office space in South Africa, particularly in sought-after areas, it makes economic sense to alleviate that expense. The fluidity of the South African economy means that employers do not want to tie themselves down by signing long-term leases and establishing the infrastructure necessary to start and maintain a company.
The benefits of co-working spaces
People who work in shared office spaces report that they enjoy the energy that is shared by people who don’t necessarily work for the same company as they do, or in the same industry. People become aware of a collective understanding of the difficulties and joys of employment, in any sphere or industry.
For start-ups, the benefits are enormous. There are no overheads that need to be organised and paid: cleaning, internet, air conditioning, furniture – these are all supplied. Small companies need not worry about setting up a furnished workspace. Instead, these companies can worry about the essential aspects of getting their business off the ground.
Collaboration, connection, community
Shared working space offers a professional environment that helps develop a work routine. This is particularly effective for people who work alone or who struggle to separate themselves from tasks they need to accomplish if they work from home.
South African co-working spaces like Workshop17 encourage a non-judgemental environment where ideas can grow. But this is not to say that the environment is purely a social one. Co-working spaces also offer quiet spaces that enable privacy while also giving workers a sense of community. It’s about offering a whole spectrum of work spaces, suited to every aspect of office work.
Are larger corporates excluded?
Large financial institutions in South Africa, like Standard Bank and Old Mutual, have seen the light and are choosing to locate teams in co-working offices rather than in the big banking towers of years gone by. The digital generation thrives on the flexibility of a co-working space. The casual nature of this model of work is appealing to the up-and-coming workforce and is something that more corporate companies are beginning to consider.
Where to now for co-working spaces?
The co-working movement is one that can help shape the economic landscape of South Africa. The more anchor clients who see the benefits of working in a shared space, the more the offices can expand and extend to areas outside of main hubs like the CBD. This will increase the number of access points, enabling people not to be restricted by the distance from their home to the co-working space.
The opportunities are endless, and although access to great coffee all day is a perk, there are many more factors that make co-working spaces the way of the future.
To get in on the action, contact the Workshop17 office closest to you.
