We live in a changing world and the approach to employment has had to evolve in a post-pandemic environment. So where does the smart locker fit into this context? Well, the need to optimise workspace has created a demand for better storage practices. Welcome to the realm of innovation and the emergence of the smart locker.
Background
As people increasingly return to the office, many are only doing so on an ad-hoc basis. Working habits have changed, perhaps irreversibly and the ability to work from home is a concept many businesses are encouraging, as they aim to retain their best working talent.
Even so, there are still occasions when people need that face-to-face interaction and have a need to visit the office for meetings.
That has given business owners the scope to redesign the office space to better fit requirements. Part of that thinking involves the introduction of smart technologies.
Creating smarter storage space
By analysing data, companies can establish how office space is used – and importantly, how often it is utilised.
Establishing work areas that are under-utilised, can help to free-up space for creative and innovative use.
In essence, storage is the catalyst for the smart office, for inventions like breakout areas and the introduction of plants to enhance well-being.
What is a smart locker?
A smart locker takes storage facilities to the next level.
Using technology to monitor usage, companies can identify how often an individual locker is used, indicating whether lockers are being used cost-effectively and with the right locker to user ratio in place.
A smart locker system will help to reduce the on-going costs of lost locker keys, access issues and time management. It also eliminates the traditional office desk and drawers, further freeing-up floor space.
Data can establish if some lockers need to be relocated to another area of the business, thus creating office space for other business needs.
Additionally, mobile employees can book a vacant locker via their smart phone, for the occasions when they visit an office.
Smart lockers may even contain a USB charging port which enables the charging of mobile phones or Airpods.
In summary, the latest generation of smart lockers is therefore flexible to suit the needs of your workforce, it frees up space through data collection and has a practical use for charging other technologies.
The smart locker is an essential part of an agile workplace.
Forward-thinking solutions
At iQ Workspace, we work with a multitude of suppliers, for all your office furniture needs.
We have smart locker solutions that can be implemented on a stand-alone basis or as part of an overall office re-configuration project.
Narbutas offer a variety of smart-locker options to help shape your modern office setup.
Its range includes modular locker cabinets for secure personal and office items storage, temporary or all-day use. Lockers can be personalised and there is a choice of sizes available.
The Narbutas locker designs put security at a premium and include traditional key locking, combination lock and electronic locks which are opened by a code or a card. Electronic locks incorporate smart features and can be assigned to individuals or be used by different users with temporary needs – perfect for the agile worker.
Simplicity Lockers understands how business needs have evolved when it comes to locker usage.
Using smart technology, companies can assign lockers to employees on a fixed-term or temporary basis, with individuals able to book lockers through a free smart phone app.
Similarly, lockers can be assigned on a daily basis for visitors, clients or temporary staff and offer the ideal solution for employees who work remotely and on an agile basis.
Lockers are automatically released at the end of the day or set time period, and users are contacted with a reminder to vacate their locker facility.
The post room is a key function of many businesses and Simplicity Lockers has developed a parcel management software solution called MYPUP.
The system notifies package recipients by email or smart phone, when the item has been delivered to a specifically assigned smart parcel locker. The notification informs the recipient of how they can collect their item/s and the locker will track when they have been retrieved.
The company’s ‘IT Kiosk’ provides a secure system for managing a company’s IT equipment. Employees are assigned a locker and can deposit/collect iPads, mobile phones, and laptops from a designated locker within the company’s IT Kiosk.
The humble locker has undergone a transformation in recent years and innovation has created a smart, practical, revolutionary piece of office furniture, that complements the modern office.
Why not speak to iQWorkspace today, to discuss your storage needs?
