So we’ve all heard that ergonomics is essential for our health, wellbeing, and productivity. But, do ergonomics have a role in good design? Based on various studies, the answer is a resounding yes! Here are four reasons why.
- Humans find comfortable design more appealing. This should be intuitive, but research shows that people perceive more value in devices, objects, and materials that are easy to use, comfortable, and high-quality. According to a study by Accenture, 32% of a consumer’s motivation when considering a product is the quality and ease of use, which translates to great design. When a product simply “feels right,” you assign a higher worth to it, believe it is higher quality, and naturally trust it to work better. Suppose you set two chairs side by side and one is ergonomically correct, and the other is lacking. The ergonomic chair will consistently be viewed as a better design and overall product. The Lilly by 9to5 Seating is the perfect blend of ergonomics and style. The classic design is complemented by a lumbar supporting backrest and a wide range of finish options, including a rocker base for a fun alternative to the traditional office chair.
2. Ergonomic furniture helps calm the mind and promote focus. Mental health is more important than ever, finally getting the attention it has always deserved. When your body is comfortable, and in a good posture, the mind has one less distraction, improving focus. Research from Indeed shows that a focused mind increases productivity, reduces stress, and improves quality.
One of the first steps to focusing your mind is the right task chair that feels right and doesn’t distract the user with pain points or constant adjustments. When you need to choose the best ergonomic option, the award-winning design of the HÅG Capisco is a perfect fit. Designer Peter Opsvik crafted this innovative and fun chair to think outside the box of “normal” chair design. Need something more traditional? Check out Neo. Available as a task chair, stool, conference chair, or executive seating, it’s a genuinely versatile office chair that offers excellent value. Who knew your office chair could make you more focused and happy!
3. Happier employees perceive their environment more positively. With the return to in-person work well underway, many employers face pushback from workers who prefer to work from home. This Harvard Business Review study shows that employees want to work from home on average 2.5 days a week. Generous WFH policies are becoming a significant perk in a tight labor market. So, when employees are in the office, companies are desperate to keep them happy and keep a positive view of the office environment. Studies vary, but this Forbes article shows that the average American adult sits approximately 15 hours per day, so an ergonomically correct task chair is crucial to health and perceived happiness.
4. Enhance the attractiveness of your organization to new hires. This last one is broad but applicable. Employers have to be creative and aggressive when recruiting employees given the extremely tight labor market. After pay, benefits, and WFH policy, many workers consider the physical environment when choosing a company. Is it up to date? Does it have a relaxed atmosphere? Are there amenities besides the traditional break room? Great design plays a critical role in defining an environment’s overall look and feel, and ergonomic chairs, desks, and accessories help deliver a positive environment.
Whether you are planning a new build, managing a renovation, or simply upgrading old furniture in the office, remember to keep ergonomics and design in mind. Balancing the two leads to happier, healthier, and more productive employees. Not sure where to start? Feel free to reach out to chair experts at 9to5 Seating for assistance.
