Thursday, January 7, 2016

Office Add-Ons: Must Have Ergonomic Accessories of 2016

Looking to become more productive and efficient in the workplace? We've got you covered! In today's post we'll highlight must have ergonomic accessories that are guaranteed to give your operationally functionality a major boost. From monitor arms to sit to stand tables, the products highlighted in today's post will make 2016 your most comfortable year ever.

Must Have Ergonomic ProductsStill operating with that computer screen sitting on your desk top? If so, you're essentially wasting extra work surface space. A monitor arm will also help you reduce eye strain with the ability to raise and lower your screens to eye level. Utilizing a dual screen monitor arm will help increase the rate at which you compute on a daily basis. No more flipping between multiple tabs! Brands like ESI Ergonomic Solutions and Mayline have introduced user friendly monitor arm solutions that are very cost effective and install in minutes via clamp and grommet attachment options.

Ergonomic CPU HolderTired of banging your knees on the CPU when you sit down in your office chair? You're not alone! Ergonomic office brands have solved the problem with the under mount CPU holder. These handy ergonomic add-ons attach underneath desk surfaces to provide you with the knee space needed to work comfortably. You'll also avoid those pesky trips under your desk to route wires and plug in devices. With your CPU mounted off the ground, you'll also be protected against flood and water damage. An ergonomic CPU holder is a must have for 2016! We recommend selecting a locking model to keep your digital files secure and safe. Excellent CPU mounting solutions can be purchased for less than two hundred bucks. This is one ergonomic investment you won't regret!

Articulating Keyboard TraySlide out keyboard trays were the bee's knees a few years ago. This year, it's all about articulating models that adjust and swivel to help you find just the right computing angle. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is no joke and we have to fight back with everything we've got to ensure we're working effectively in our workstations. Ditch the non-adjustable keyboard tray and go with an articulating model in 2016. You'll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Ergonomic Foot RestDo you ever find yourself operating at your desk with your legs extended out in front of you and crossed? Do you ever prop your feet up on the base of your office chair? These band habits reduce blood flow, increase fatigue, and cause muscle stiffness that can otherwise be avoided with the integration of an adjustable foot rest. Units like the OBUSFOTR from Global Total Office are super affordable and really come in handy. At just $109.99, this foot rest is a must have.

Mobile Computer StationMobile computer workstations are becoming incredibly popular. Brands like ESI have made it easy to operate laptops comfortably and effectively from any room with products like their WOW station. This small but effective mobile computer desk offers a sleek modern look that won't take up too much of your valuable floor space. Mobile computer desks like these are heavily relied on by workers on the go. Don't waste time looking for a desk surface to work at. Simply use a station like the WOW and operate from both sitting and standing positions to suit the specific needs of any particular task.

Sit To Stand Touch Screen TableLeave no doubt, 2016 will be the year of the sit to stand table! Sit to stand tables have been building momentum for years. These days, nearly every reputable furniture manufacturer offers some form of sit to stand table thats ready to promote continuous movement in the workplace, reduce fatigue, and improve blood flow. Sit to stand tables are great for students and business professionals alike. They come in handy in the class room, training room, reception area, and even the conference room. In years passed, hand crank tables were the only way to go. In 2016, it's all about the digital touch screen models that allow you to raise and lower the operational height at the touch of a button. Sit to stand tables have come a long way in the last 5 years and in 2016 they'll truly make their mark. Jump on board with this booming trend and join a movement that will truly make a difference for you and your coworkers.

Wednesday, January 6, 2016

7 Ergonomic New Year's Resolutions for 2016

Ergonomic New Year's Resolutions for 2016
The new year is upon us. While you'll likely be committing to laying of fried food, exercising more, and watching less TV, it's also important to focus on being more efficient, comfortable, and healthy in the workplace. In today's post we'll highlight 7 ergonomic resolutions that are sure to help you do just that. Enjoy!

1.) Don't Slouch

Every time you lean forward and away from your chair back, you're missing out on major ergonomic benefits. Be sure to maintain constant contact with your chair back while computing at your desk. Doing so will help you reduce fatigue and muscle stiffness that can quickly put a damper on your work day. Don't be afraid to adjust the angle of your office chair back multiple times throughout the day! 

2.) Keep Computer Screen At Eye Level

Many of us look down at our computer screens all day when typing. This angle is really bad for the neck! To avoid this common problem, raise your computer screen to eye level. The integration of an ergonomic monitor arm will solve this problem. If you're tight on funds, don't worry. A stack of books or magazines can get the job done too. This quick fix resolution is a must for 2016!

3.) Keep Feet Flat and Forward

Don't extend your legs and cross your feet out in front of your while working. You'll also want to avoid using the base of your office chair as a foot rest. These bad habits have got to stop! Commit to operating with your feet facing forward and flat on the ground in 2016. You'll feel more stable and you won't be limiting blood flow. You'll also be effectively fighting back against common aches and pains caused from improper sitting posture.

4.) Avoid Extended Sits

Did you know that sitting for long periods of time can actually shorten your life span? Extended sits are no joke! Be sure to take a short break every hour in 2016. Get up from your desk, allow your eyes to adjust, and take a short walk. Stretch out those muscles and return to your workstation in comfort.

5.) Utilize Ergonomic Tools

The right combination of ergonomic tools will make you more efficient and effective in 2016. A CPU holder will provide you with additional knee space. It will get your computer's power source up and off the ground so that you don't have to hunch over to turn it on and plug in devices. An articulating keyboard tray will help you compute at correct angles and avoid office epidemics like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. A sit to stand ergonomic desk will help promote continuous movement in the workplace while simultaneously improving blood flow. The utilization of ergonomic tools will require a financial investment. That being said, you'll recapture those funds through improved comfort, health, and productivity over the long term.

6.) Master The Office Chair

Even the most expensive office chair is only as good as it's owner. You have to take the time to master your chair and it's features in 2016. Today's office chairs come equipped with adjustment features aplenty. If you don't take the time to understand their benefits and put them to use, you'll be lacking in terms of comfort. Watch ergonomic chair demo videos online, read product reviews, and don't be afraid to push your chair to the limits. Don't take a "set it and forget it approach" with your chair. Master the functions and controls so that you're ready to properly adjust at a moments notice to meet the specific demands of any particular task.

7.) Spread The Word

Make it a point to spread the word about the benefits of ergonomics in 2016. Share tips and tricks that have worked for you to help out your fellow coworkers. If you hear your work family discussing areas of discomfort, don't be afraid to speak up with a solution. It's our duty to share and help others achieve a comfortable work day.

Tuesday, January 5, 2016

6 Cures For A Holiday Hangover at Work

How To Cure A Holiday Hangover At WorkFamily has come to town, meals have been cooked, and the house has been repeatedly cleaned. The 2015 holiday season has left many of us exhausted. The overwhelming fatigue can leave us with a major hangover that will no doubt transfer into our work lives if we're not careful. Luckily, we've got 6 surefire cures to help you transition into the new year. Enjoy!

1.) Get Good Rest

Hangovers of any kind are cured with good rest. Your body is no doubt tired from all the holiday festivities. Over the next couple of weeks, commit to going to bed early. Don't stay up late watching TV and movies that can be seen on the weekend. Tuck yourself in around 9:00 and allow your body and mind to recharge effectively.

2.) Eat Healthy

The words holiday and healthy don't often get mentioned in the same sentence! As we've all been pounding pie and gorging on baked delicacies, it's time to get back to eating healthy. We typically expect to gain a few pounds in November and December, but January is a time for getting our lives back on track. Don't start off your mornings with a donut this month. Instead, consider healthy alternatives like fruit and yogurt. Skip the burger and fries at lunch and go with a tasty salad. Provide your body with the nutrition it needs to fight the holiday hangover and shed those unwanted pounds. Instead of eating lunch at your office desk alone, take your lunch outside and get some fresh air. It will do you good!

3.) Exercise

It's hard to get back into exercise mode after the holiday season. That being said, exercise is a great way to fight back against the holiday hangover that's no doubt got you down. Did you know you can exercise right at your desk? It's true! This popular activity is better known as deskercise! There's lot's of simple stretches and workplace activities you can do to get the blood flowing. Doing a little stretching once a day at the office will help you fight fatigue and combat workplace discomfort. Use your office chair or desk as a stretching station for about 15 minutes in the morning and again after lunch. You'll no doubt find yourself all the better for it!

4.) Make A Work Plan

Don't rush through your day without a plan. This is bound to leave you flustered and equally frustrated. When you arrive at work, sip your cup of coffee while creating a plan of attack for the day. Write down a list of daily goals and estimated competition times. Mark your tasks off one by one and enjoy a sense of renewed vigor and accomplishment. An effectively plan will keep you on track and ahead of the curve. Leave the holiday hangover in December by being well organized and efficient.

5.) Commit To Ergonomics

Leave no doubt, workplace ergonomics will be bigger than ever in 2016. A solid commitment to good posture and ergonomic practices will help you tackle your work day in comfort. Take the time to master your ergonomic chair and it's features. Doing so will have you ready, willing, and able to adjust at a moments notice. Don't take a "set it and forget it" approach to your workstation. Integrate popular ergonomic office tools like a monitor arm, sit to stand keyboard tray, and CPU holder. You'll see an increase in productivity and a decrease in fatigue. For those looking to fight back against a holiday hangover, what could be better?

6.) Get Organized

Start the new year off right by organizing your personal workstation. Rid your file cabinet of old and outdated materials. Organize your desk top and remove the clutter. Take the time to vacuum under your desk. There's no doubt some leftover holiday crumbs that have no business under your feet in 2016. In the long run, a well organized workspace will have you more effective and productive in the new year.

Monday, January 4, 2016

Shop Smart: The Best Conference Table Buys of 2016

Brands like Global Total Office, Mayline, and Cherryman Industries made it easy to transform conference rooms into works of art in 2016. These industry leading brands provided us with affordable tables designed to improve decor and functionality without breaking the budget. In today's post we'll review the best conference table buys of the year. Shop smart and happy holidays!

Affordable Conference TableWhen the average conference table just won't cut it, turn to Global Total Office. This highly respected manufacturer takes pride in crafting affordable, made to order tables available in a wide range of unique finish options. Popular Global Total Office conference table models like the GR6STM feature contemporary metal legs, rectangular tops, and an industrial look that's sure to be trending in 2016.

Discount Conference Table
You can't go wrong with any of Mayline's conference room tables! As a brand who takes pride in quality craftsmanship, Mayline products never disappoint. This year, the Medina collection stole the show. The modern conference room table solutions from this collection are available in 5 sizes and 5 finish options. Medina tables are also available with affordable power modules to help you streamline the meeting process. The MNC8 8' Medina conference table is the most affordable model from this best selling collection. It's currently available for just $503.99. Now that's value!

Modular Conference TableSmart shoppers turn to modular conference room tables to make their interiors more versatile. With a modular conference table set you'll be able to quickly adapt to fit the needs of any situation. You'll also provide your business with room for future growth without the need to purchase a whole new table. Brands like Cherryman Industries made it affordable to go modular in 2015. Their Amber casegoods collection includes expandable table sets like the AM-410N for just $989.00. With a 14' long 3 piece oval top, this table configuration is truly a great buy and one of the largest available on the market at this price point.

Glass Conference TableWhen it comes to crafting cool modern furniture, OFM knows their stuff! They've become a trend setting force in the industry that never fails to impress. This year, their GT4794 glass top conference table with metal legs was a big seller. Typically, high quality glass conference tables must be custom made and cost upwards of five thousand dollars. The GT4794 features an almost 8' long top and costs just $1470.99. It's no doubt the best glass conference table buy on the market.

Oval Conference Table
Last but certainly not least, smart shoppers turned to the popular conference room tables from Offices To Go in 2015. Best selling models like the SL9544RS cost just $358.99 and feature 95" wide oval tops. This versatile table provides the perfect combination of style and value. Need your new table in a hurry? Offices To Go products are typically in stock and ship within 2 days of order. 5 attractive finish options and additional sizes are available to meet the needs of your meeting area.

Monday, December 28, 2015

The Review: Uno Seating by OFM

OFM Uno Seating ReviewThe OFM Uno office seating collection offers high end modern appeal. The chairs from this collection are unlike anything on the market. In today's post we'll take an in-depth look at the Uno product line and what makes it great.

OFM seating reviewAt first glance you'll notice the modern design characteristics showcased by OFM Uno seating. The chairs free form shape consists of a metal metal frame that's surrounded by an easy to clean upholstery that works great in healthcare environments. Rest assured, these chairs from OFM turn heads! The Uno will no doubt earn your office waiting area the positive compliments it deserves.

Modern Lobby Seating ConfigurationUno chairs are extremely durable. They are built to withstand intensive use environments and support users up to 250 pounds. The chair seat and back are separated by a small opening that helps prevent the build up of debris such as crumbs and candy wrappers from visitors.

The flexible chair back makes for added comfort and reliable support. With an armless design, ganging multiple chairs together to form unique layouts is easier than ever. Chair seats are constructed of fire retardant foam to comply with safety standards.

OFM Uno SeatingOFM never fails to impress. This industry leader takes pride in crafting modern office seating for professional lounge, lobby, and waiting room applications. The Uno collection shows OFM's commitment to quality, functionality, and design. This best selling chair line also provides excellent value. Uno chairs are sold in packs of 2 for just $385.99.

Pillow Back Uno ChairsThe Uno collection was further enhanced with the addition of 421 model pillow back side chairs. These smaller seating solutions work in harmony with 420 model Uno chairs to form interesting configurations that will make your waiting room pop. The 421 pillow back side chair is available for just $219.99.

What sets the Uno seating collection apart are it's unique color combinations. While standard tones are available, OFM thought outside the box with this popular office chair line and gave us amazing two tone variations that really rock! All of the Uno color combinations typically ship within 2 days of order, a great attribute for businesses up against tight makeover deadlines!


We give the Uno collection 4 out of 5 stars. These chairs are affordable, well made, comfortable, and incredibly stylish. We applaud OFM's efforts with this collection. If you're looking to make a distinctive statement with your guest waiting area, give this trend setting line a look. You'll be glad you did!

Monday, December 21, 2015

Office Q & A: Advice For Conference Table Shoppers

Conference Room Remodeling AdviceWhen shopping for new office furniture of any kind, it's best to ask questions before making your purchase. That being said, in today's post we'll be answering the most commonly asked questions by conference room table shoppers. The advice in today's post should help our readers make informed purchasing decisions. As always, our goal is to ensure you love your interiors. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to comment! We're here to help.

Q: Where do I start?

Every furniture shopper wants to know where and how to start their project effectively. We give the same answer every time we're asked. All professional remodeling and makeover projects start with proper space planning. Start by obtaining the perimeter dimensions of your conference room. Take note of all entry ways, windows, load bearing members, and room obstructions that will affect the way your furniture fits. If you don't have accurate dimensions from the start, you won't know what size table will fit properly in your space. No matter what, don't guess! It always leads to trouble. If you need help getting your room dimension, ask the pros. You can usually handle the task yourself with nothing more than a tape measurer, pencil, and paper.

Q: How long do conference tables take to ship?

The answer to this question will vary depending on the manufacturer of the conference table you select. That being said, in stock tables will typically ship out from the factory within 2 business days of order. They'll usually be in transit for about 5 more days. Made to order conference tables take a little bit longer. You'll be looking at about 3 to 5 weeks for manufacturing. Transit times will be about the same.

Q: What manufacturers are best? 

We always recommend going with a reputable brand with great reviews. You can't go wrong with any of the big 3. Mayline, Global Total Office, and Cherryman Industries offer fantastic conference tables for modern and traditional interiors. These brands offer the full service collections needed to maintain a cohesive look between your interiors. This means, your new modern conference table can also match the desks, reception stations, and accent furniture in your private office.

Q: What finishes are best for my space?

You can go with classic finish options like cherry, maple, and mahogany as they will always have a place in the furniture world. On the other hand, trending finish options are always hitting the market. This year, gray wood grain tones have been incredibly popular. Mayline's Medina collection offers a finish called Gray Steel that should definitely be considered by any shopper looking to keep their interior on the cutting edge. We also love popular finishes like Absolute Acajou from Global Total Office and Espresso from Cherryman Industries.

Q: How many guests will fit at my table?

There's a simple formula you can use to determine how many guests will fit around your table. Take the overall length of your table, divide it by three, and multiply the answer by 2. In a nut shell, you'll want to leave about 3' of table space for each person. This ensures they can operate comfortably in their chair. So essentially, a 12' conference table will accommodate 4 guests per side. Depending on table shape, you can also add guests on the ends if additional conference seating is needed.

Q: Is it hard to assemble a conference table?

Hard, no. Heavy, yes! Conference table assembly is pretty basic. In most cases you'll simply be attaching the table legs to the surface. We recommend laying down a no abrasive surface, like a blanket. Flip the table top over on to the surface to prevent scratches. Attach the legs to the top, and flip the table over. Definitely have at least 2 helpers on hand to avoid straining the back!

Q: Which models are best sellers this year? 

This year, powered conference tables have been the way to go. We mentioned brands like Global Total Office, Mayline, and Cherryman Industries above for a reason! These industry leaders take pride in crafting cutting edge powered conference tables that will no about help you and your business streamline the meeting process. Powered conference tables can be equipped with phone, ethernet, HDMI, USB, and audio input options to meet your specific needs. Additionally, boat shaped tables,  elliptical top tables, and modular conference table sets have also been trending. As businesses look for new ways to make their interiors stand out from the competition, hybrid shapes like these have become super popular.

Q: What are the best ways to save money on a new conference table?

We love to help our readers save big, so we threw this question in! There's lot's of great ways to extend your budget when conference table shopping. Start by visiting comparison shopping engines like Google Shopping. Here you'll be able to sort through tables from a variety of brands. You'll also be able to determine which dealers provide free shipping. This alone will help you save a bundle! Before you complete the checkout process, be on the look out for a coupon entry field. If you see one, take the time to checkout popular sites like Tjoos.com and RetailMeNot.com. Most of the top furniture providers online list their coupons at these respected sites. If you can't find an active coupon, give your dealer of choice a call. It never hurts to ask for a good deal! You can also inquire about any current specials, promotions, and closeouts they may be featuring this month.

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Collection of The Year: Medina by Mayline

The Mayline Medina collection took the office furniture world by storm in 2015. This full service line of professional office desks, reception stations, conference tables, and storage solutions offers everything you need to transform your interiors into works of art. With trend setting new finish option, pre-configured executive furniture layouts, and an unmatched attention to detail, the Medina collection was no doubt the hottest furniture collection of the year.

Mayline Medina DesksMedina desks from Mayline are in a league of their own. Even at first glance you'll notice the perfect blend of modern and traditional design characteristics showcased by these amazing workplace solutions. Medina desks are available in both 63" and 72" wide variations that can be enhanced with returns and desk extensions for additional work surface space. Lots of great Medina executive desk packages are available to simplify your office remodeling project.

Medina Reception Desk
The receptionist stations for sale in the Medina collection will no doubt wow your valued office guests. These contemporary welcome desks are available in rectangular and L shaped variations. Medina reception desks feature a blend of laminate work surfaces, glass transaction counters, and silver metal trim. All models are available with or without storage to meet your specific organizing needs.

Medina Conference TableThis year, it was all about powering up the conference room! Unfortunately, most of the powered conference tables available in 2015 came with hefty price tags that the average consumer couldn't realistically justify. Thankfully, Mayline gave us affordable, functional, and incredibly stylish powered conference tables from the Medina collection. These modern tables features straight sides, curved ends, and silver modesty panels. Popular sizes from 8' to 16' are available to meet your meeting area needs. All of the modern conference table models from the Medina collection can be enhanced with addition of basic power modules that include AC and data inputs for just over two hundred bucks each. When compared to other models in the industry, Medina tables offer unmatched value.

Medina MVLC Low Wall Cabinet
To be at your best, you'e got to be well organized! The Mayline Medina Furniture Line offers the desk pedestals, low wall cabinets, and filing solutions you'll need to get the job done right. Many of Medina's desk packages and reception station layouts include wall cabinets and pedestals to simplify your organizing needs. All of Medina's bookcases and storage products are also available individually.

Gray Steel Finish Option
What sets the Medina collection apart are it's amazing finish options. As consumers were searching for new and innovative ways to step outside the realm of traditional finish options like cherry and maple, Mayline gave us Medina at just the right time! Trend setting tones like Gray Steel, Textured Sea Salt, Brown Sugar, and Mocha made it easy to create amazing spaces. Medina showcases a commitment to quality craftsmanship and excellence that we've come to expect from Mayline. Look for this collection to continue it's dominance in 2016 and beyond.

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