offices

An office is a space used for professional, administrative, or managerial work. It provides a formal environment where employees perform tasks, coordinate activities, manage information, and interact with clients and colleagues. Offices are organized to support workflows such as planning, reporting, decision making, and record keeping.

Traditionally, offices featured private rooms for managers around a corridor, but many organizations now use open-plan layouts to foster communication and flexibility. Modern designs often incorporate hot desks, collaboration zones, meeting rooms, and quiet areas to balance teamwork with individual focus. Ergonomic furniture, lighting, acoustics, and access to daylight influence comfort and productivity.

The office has evolved with technology and work practices. The rise of clerical automation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries expanded the administrative workforce. The late 20th century brought personal computers and networked systems, shifting tasks toward digital records and electronic communication. In the 21st century, hybrid work and remote collaboration reduce or reconfigure the need for physical space while maintaining the office as a hub for collaboration and culture.

Organizations use various office types, including corporate headquarters, regional or satellite offices, and flexible coworking spaces. Typical facilities include reception, conference rooms, kitchens or break rooms, storage, IT rooms, and professional services such as facilities management, security, and mail handling.

Technology underpins modern offices through local networks and cloud services, videoconferencing, digital signage, and access control systems. Safety and compliance cover fire protection, emergency egress, and occupational health standards. Sustainability considerations include energy efficiency, waste reduction, and green building certifications.