Co-working Space and Offices

The trend for co-working spaces is growing, with more than 20 such outfits in S'pore. By Tay Suan Chiang

PHOTO: YEN MENG JIIN

 

IN a conventional work scenario, you go to the office, you know exactly where you sit, who your colleagues are and of course, the fact that you're all working for the same company. Or are you? In the office of the 2010 decade, the person next to you may not only be from a different company, but in a whole different line of work.

Welcome to the world of co-working, where employees from a spectrum of industries share office space and amenities.

The trend for co-working spaces has been catching on, with more than 20 such spaces in Singapore. In an era where mobility is key, this seems a logical way to go. Working from home is an option but it can be a lonely existence, plus it doesn't give you the professional image that earns client confidence. You can work from a cafe instead, but the cost of a daily coffee and cake can add up, never mind that cafes are noisy, with neither privacy nor access to office equipment.

Compared to working in a serviced office, a co-working space is more relaxed and flexible, and often at a fraction of the cost.

Co-working spaces have been popular with start-up companies, people who work independently or are always on the go.

"They also appeal to those who come from overseas, and are here in Singapore to work for several months," says Michelle Woo, general manager of The Co, a co-working space at High Street, which opened last month.

Depending on needs, members of these co-working spaces can rent a desk or an office suite which can take from three to 14 people. Members pay a monthly fee to use the space, while some offer a daily pass.

But co-working spaces offer more than just an ideal place to work.

Michael Zhan, founder of SmartSpace, which manages four co-working spaces across Singapore, says such arrangements are a hassle-free, reasonably priced work space solution.

"Joining a co-working space allows one to be part of a dynamic community that allows for networking and forming relationships," he adds. "This is ultimately what start-ups need - to meet the right people in complementary industries so that they can take their business to the next level."

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