The word phrase coworking space has some pretty obvious connotations to most people – exposed brick, professionals in jeans and sneakers, free wi-fi. What do creatives truly value about these collaborative spaces? Is it the location, décor or perhaps the sense of community with likeminded individuals? Perhaps its something as simple as the free wi-fi or some decent coffee on the house?
The truth is, every start-up, every entrepreneur, indeed every person using a coworking space will have different expectations and desires. To give an insight into what creatives are looking for, we’ve analysed the main perks advertised by coworking ventures and what types of people they might attract.
Community
One of the most common benefits often spruiked by coworking spaces is the opportunity to be part of a community, one filled with likeminded individuals and creative types who are all trying to achieve a goal. Collaborating with other members can be a powerful tool to increase productivity but is dependent on each person’s skillset, workload and willingness to engage with others.
Décor
It might sound silly to some but the environment someone works in can impact on the quality and volume of output. While there is great diversity between locations, coworking spaces tend to be fitted out with plenty of attention committed to architecture and design, which can be conducive to pumping out a better standard of work than if you’re at home in a small apartment or a loud, busy café.
Location
Proximity to prospective clients or relevant businesses can be a strong motivator for some. If you’re a start-up constantly taking meetings with financial firms to pitch a product, it would make sense to set up shop in a space where those organisations are based. The same applies to your own living arrangements – it’s not ideal to be spending hours commuting.
Resources
Coworking spaces may require a cost but they offer a combination of amenities that you can’t replicate elsewhere. The majority will have wi-fi, coffee, meeting rooms, kitchen facilities, air conditioning… the list goes on. Sure, you could work out of home (but then there’s the lack of professionalism when meeting a client) or in a cafe (where you are surrounded by other people in a busy, loud environment).
Coworking SA is a prime service for creatives and entrepreneurs in South Australia, allowing them to search for a space state-wide and filter by amenities such as 24/7 access, wi-fi, free onsite parking, recording studio and showers. Coworking SA will be presenting at the Adelaide ACS Seminar and available to answer your questions.
Useful Links:
Is Canberra Australia’s next start-up hub?
.jpg)
