Collaboration spaces are workspaces where different businesses and organizations operate under one roof or using one online platform. Using a collaborative office space is an affordable and flexible alternative for business startups and small businesses. They often have fully serviced spaces, complete with a wide range of amenities like high-speed internet, printers, scanners, and audio-visual equipment.
In this article, we will look at different collaborative space ideas and coworking spaces in the Philippines.
1. Traditional Collaboration Spaces
Traditional collaboration spaces offer a structured work environment for individuals or organizations. They are often equipped with audio-visual equipment like projectors and screens, and whiteboards to allow seamless collaboration and communication in a team.
Some examples of traditional collaboration spaces are conference rooms, board rooms, and shared offices.
- Conference Room – a flexible space that may serve different purposes, like team meetings, client presentations, and training sessions. It often has a large table with chairs and is best used by a small group of people.
- Board Room – usually bigger than a conference room with a more formal atmosphere and setup, typically used for board meetings, executive meetings, and investor presentations. They also have long tables, more comfortable chairs, and high-quality audio-visual equipment.
- Open Space Office – a collaborative space solution where individuals share their space with other people in the organization. Each person gets their own table or area, but no walls or cubicles separate them from the others.
This collaborative office space can accommodate small-to-medium businesses and startups.
2. Virtual Collaboration Spaces
Virtual collaboration spaces let teams from all over the country and the world coordinate and communicate remotely using online platforms.
Several types of virtual collaboration spaces offer unique features and benefits. Some common types are:
- Video conferencing platforms – includes Zoom and Skype and allow teams to collaborate face-to-face, allowing synchronous communication.
- Project management tools – like Trello, Basecamp, ClickUp, and Asana. They let team members organize, track their tasks and projects, and share files.
- Cloud storage services – such as Google Drive and OneDrive. They provide cloud storage and allow individuals to work on a specific project at the same time.
- Virtual whiteboards – like Mural and Miro which let teams brainstorm ideas and create concept maps in real-time
- Communication platforms – like Slack, Workplace, and Microsoft Teams allow synchronous and asynchronous collaboration, project, and task tracking, and file sharing.
Some of these platforms offer limited but free access to a small group of users. While more features can be unlocked for a paid subscription.
For virtual office tips, read Virtual Office in the Philippines: New Work Setup for Businesses.
3. Co-Working Spaces
Co-working spaces are shared workspaces, where employees from different organizations or companies can rent working stations complete with amenities. These places offer high-speed internet access and a comfortable workstation outside their offices and homes.
Some co-working spaces also have pantries where individuals can take a break and rest with coffee and snacks. You can also choose whether to rent them for a day or for the long term, so they fit any budget.
There are also different types, depending on what you need. Here are some common coworking spaces in the Philippines.
- Open/Conventional. The most common type and what people often envision when thinking about coworking spaces. This type is often well-lit and has an open space design and it fosters a collaborative working environment.
- Full-service. This is a high-end co-working space with nicer amenities. Their membership often includes unlimited drinks and serviced food, but they cost more than open co-working spaces.
- This coworking space has the least amenities included and a very minimal design. They may be a bit dimly lit to create a quieter atmosphere and a non-distractive working space.
- This co-working space is like your favorite coffee shop, except it is specifically designed for working individuals. It is also more laid-back and often has other lifestyle-oriented areas like gyms or condos.
Read Things to Consider in Choosing a Coworking Space to know more.
4. Incubators and Accelerators
Incubators and accelerators are common terms used in business startups. They are types of organizations aimed at helping start-up businesses grow. And some collaborative office spaces are designed to work as incubators and accelerators.
Incubators
Incubators are organizations specializing in helping start-up budding business develop their products and services. They focus on giving innovative ideas to improve the business and mentoring and are often industry specific.
You need to apply to get into an incubator, and their program typically lasts for a year. However, not all incubators provide funds. Some, though, may get their funds through economic development organizations or local municipalities.
Accelerators
If you have a more established business, you can apply to accelerators. They help accelerate your growth in exchange for equity. They are often related to venture capitalist groups, and can easily connect you to proper networks for expanding your business.
5. Innovation Labs
Innovation labs are collaborative office spaces that let you explore and develop new business ideas. They assist you from testing ideas to production. These places also help with developing new business solutions and services.
Growing businesses may benefit from innovation labs too. They can help startups in developing products and services that best cater to their target market. Your employees also get to work with top talents, so they can hone their skills with like-minded individuals for their personal and professional growth.
These collaborative office spaces can be found in academic institutions, government agencies, and sometimes within companies.
Find Your Affordable Coworking Space in the Philippines
Working in a traditional office is no longer the norm. You can have a workspace that suits you and your business needs.
You can work in a traditional collaborative office space if you still want privacy but at lower costs. Or you can work anywhere and use virtual collaborative spaces. If you only want a change of scenery for a couple of days, then you can try co-working spaces. Finally, if you’re looking to expand and grow your business, check out incubators, accelerators, and innovation labs.
The best collaborative spaces for your business improve your team’s work and morale. And it lets them connect with like-minded individuals for their personal and professional growth.
M Spaces is the coworking space in the Philippines that has it all. They have private offices that range from 8 to 23 sqm, perfect for startups and small businesses. They are also perfectly situated in the middle of the metro and easily accessible for your team. Visit our coworking rates and services to see what space fits your business needs!
