Coworking spaces are excellent alternatives to private offices for freelancers, entrepreneurs and businesses. With a global shift towards more agile and flexible working, businesses all over the world have realised the benefits and opportunities that come with these types of practices. 

But what exactly is a coworking space? And how does flexible working operate in different types of businesses? Here, we’ll uncover exactly what a coworking space is and how choosing a shared office could benefit your business.

What is coworking?

Coworking involves people from different organisations sharing an office space. People who co-work typically share a large office, additional facilities and equipment. They can also network and brainstorm to generate new ideas and share knowledge in a way that isn’t always possible in a traditional office. 

Coworking enables people to work on independent projects amongst other like-minded professionals. This working style fosters an environment of collaboration, helping employees from different businesses share ideas and build relationships.

is a coworking office space?

A coworking office space is an open environment where people can work collaboratively alongside other professionals from different businesses. Coworking spaces offer the same amenities you would find in traditional or private offices, with the added benefit of flexible working. Most coworking spaces provide WiFi, business technology, printers, reception staff, mail handling and all the standard office equipment you would find in a serviced office. 

There are several types of coworking spaces, from those with basic amenities to fully serviced office spaces that include state-of-the-art equipment. Some packages include access to hot desking stations, meeting rooms and conference rooms so your team can enjoy all the space they need under one roof. 

What is a shared office space?

The terms ‘shared office’ and ‘coworking space’ are often used interchangeably. However, there are subtle differences between the two. While a coworking space is simply a space to work alongside others, a shared workspace can include a mixture of coworking spaces, private offices and even virtual offices. 

Shared offices include all the amenities you would find in a coworking space, but businesses can also book private offices within the main building. In contrast, coworking offices are usually open plan and may not include private workspaces. All Regus locations offer coworking and office space, with the option of booking meeting rooms as an add-on, so the businesses and individuals that work in our workspaces can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Who uses a coworking space?

Initially, coworking spaces were mostly used by sole traders and freelancers who didn’t want to work from home. However, with more and more businesses embracing flexible working, coworking spaces have become a hub for all types of organisations. 

Still popular with freelancers, start-ups and small business owners, coworking spaces are now also used by large corporations that are looking for cool, practical workspaces without the overhead costs. With many coworking memberships, including ours, providing access to thousands of offices worldwide, they are a great option for businesses that have a global presence or are looking to access new markets. 

What are the benefits of a coworking space?

From knowledge sharing and collaboration to flexibility and improved wellbeing, shared work environments can provide many benefits to any type of organisation. Flexibility is one of the biggest benefits of a coworking space, enabling businesses to work wherever and whenever suits them. 

With more and more people citing flexible working as important to their job satisfaction, many businesses are now changing the way they work. Coworking spaces offer organisations this flexibility, with the ability to add or remove memberships as needed. 

The cost savings that come with moving to coworking spaces are also hugely beneficial for businesses. Organisations can save on the huge expense of leasing or buying private offices with pay-as-you-go plans where you only pay for the spaces you use. This makes it an ideal option for growing businesses or organisations with changing needs. 

Collaboration and networking are two additional advantages of coworking spaces. This allows professionals to share knowledge and work alongside teams from different backgrounds. Communicating with others outside your business can foster creativity and help you explore new ideas, inspiring innovation and more productive ways of working within teams. 

Choosing a coworking space

Now you know how coworking spaces can benefit your business, it’s time to choose your own shared office space. Regus’ portfolio includes thousands of coworking spaces in sought-after locations around the world. Our flexible memberships allow you to tailor your experience to your needs, whether you’re looking for a lounge package so you can work while travelling or a coworking membership that allows you to meet and collaborate with other like-minded professionals.