Flex Office: Shared Offices VS Coworking | What is the best option for your business in 2023?

In an ever-changing world of work, flexible workspaces are becoming increasingly popular.

"More and more companies are making the move to the flex office in 2023."

The two most popular options for companies looking to implement flex office are shared offices and coworking.  While they share some similarities, there are key differences between these two types of flexible offices.

In this article, we'll go over the pros and cons of shared office and coworking together to help you choose the best option for your business needs in 2023!

🔍 What is coworking? 🔍

But what exactly is the definition of Coworking?  Coworking is a type of flex office. It is a popular option for freelancers and small businesses. We are talking about a shared work environment where several companies work in the same space. Coworking offers a great community environment for freelancers and small businesses looking to collaborate and exchange ideas with many other professionals.

✅ The advantages of coworking ✅

Coworking offers a community and collaborative work environment. It's ideal for freelancers and small businesses looking to connect with other professionals.

Coworking spaces are often conveniently located in busy neighborhoods, which can provide a stimulating work atmosphere. There are often networking events organized for members, which facilitates opportunities to meet other professionals and expand one's network.

Moreover, coworking spaces are often built in exceptional locations, with great design, where it is pleasant to work. In addition, these office spaces are often extremely well-equipped. They are equipped with all the necessary infrastructure to work efficiently, such as conference rooms, printers and a high-speed Internet connection.

🛑 The disadvantages of coworking 🛑

However, coworking can also have some drawbacks. First of all, compared to a shared office, it is often much more expensive, and represents a significant cost for your company.

In addition, coworking spaces are sometimes crowded and can be very noisy.  There's a constant hubbub that you could do without. It's hard for you and your team to concentrate in this situation.

Finally, coworking may not be suitable for businesses that need a private and exclusive space, or that are afraid of the potential security issues that sharing a workspace can cause.

🔍 What is a shared office? 🔍

The shared office is another option for companies that have made the choice of a flex office. It is a workspace shared by two companies (like a kind of professional roommate). The shared office often offers a more private workspace for each company, as well as shared services such as conference rooms, printers, a kitchen or relaxation spaces.

How does it work? A company wishing to monetize its empty office space can decide to rent its offices to a company with similar values that is looking for offices to rent (full or part-time) via a platform like Fiveoffices. This is what we call shared office space.

✅ The advantages of a shared office ✅

Shared office space has several advantages for businesses looking for a flexible workspace while reducing the costs associated with traditional office rental.

One of the main benefits of a shared office is cost. Sharing workspace reduces the costs associated with renting a private workspace, such as rent costs, utility costs, cleaning costs and maintenance costs. This allows companies to realize significant savings on operating costs, while still providing a professional workspace.

In addition, shared office spaces often offer a quiet, professional environment.

"Unlike coworking spaces that can be noisy and chaotic, shared office spaces are often designed to provide a quiet and productive work environment."

Often, companies wishing to sublet their offices also offer practical business benefits, such as conference rooms, a kitchen and shared printers (see all-inclusive service).

This allows companies renting a shared office to benefit from professional services without having to bear the full cost of those services. In addition, companies can rent their new workspace on a short-term or long-term basis depending on their specific needs.

Moreover, shared offices have nothing to be jealous of the collaborative aspect of their coworking cousins. Indeed, sharing is at the heart of the shared office concept, and this is what makes this flex office solution so attractive. By working in this type of space, you can benefit from a close collaboration with the other company (or companies) sharing the same workspace.

Finally, shared office spaces are often located in key business districts, offering easy access to professional networks and business partners.

🛑 The disadvantages of a shared office 🛑

However, shared offices can also have drawbacks, as all types of flex offices do. First, companies may have difficulty customizing the workspace to their specific needs.

In addition, the company that decides to lease its space with you may sometimes impose limitations on the length of the lease, which may not be suitable for companies that need a long-term workspace.

Making a decision : Shared offices 🆚 Coworking

Ultimately, the choice between shared office space and coworking depends on your specific business needs.

Whether you opt for a shared office or a coworking space, the key is to find a stimulating work environment where you can collaborate with other professionals. Both types of spaces have a lot to offer in terms of collaboration and community.

Shared offices are perfect for those who are looking for a flexible, quiet and inexpensive workspace but also want all the benefits of a collaborative work environment.

On the other hand, coworking is ideal for entrepreneurs and freelancers who aren't afraid of the decibels and are looking to connect with other like-minded professionals and enjoy a collaborative and friendly workspace.