Differences Between a Managed Office and a Coworking Space

Understand the key differences between a managed office and a coworking space, from privacy and cost to flexibility and branding for smarter workspace choices.

When a company is looking for a place to work, two popular choices are managed offices and coworking spaces. Both are modern and flexible, but they are different in many ways. This guide will help you understand the difference between a managed office and a coworking space in a simple way. Let’s look at the main difference:

Private vs Shared

A managed office is your own office space. No one else works there except your team. You can set it up the way you like. A coworking space is shared with other people. Many teams and freelancers work in the same area. You may sit next to someone from another company.

Personal touch

In a managed office, you can design everything, the chairs, tables, colours, logos, and layout. It feels like your company’s home. In a coworking space, you can’t change much. You use the furniture and layout already there.

Flexible time

Coworking spaces usually let you pay month by month. You can stop anytime, which is good for freelancers and startups. Managed offices often need a longer contract, like 1 or 2 years. It’s better for bigger teams that want to stay for a while.

Also read: How flexible workspaces can meet the demands of today and tomorrow

People around you

In coworking spaces, you work near other people from different jobs or businesses. You can talk, share ideas, and make friends. In a managed office, only your team is there. It’s quieter and private.

Cost

Coworking spaces are cheaper if you are a small team or one person. You only pay for what you use. Managed offices cost more at the start because you set up your own space. But for big teams, it can be a better deal over time.

Work environment

Coworking spaces are already set up with stylish furniture, fast internet, and common areas. They may also have extras like coffee bars or lounges. Managed offices can be made to look how you want, simple or fancy. You choose everything, but it may take time to set up.

Room to grow

If your team grows fast, coworking spaces make it easy. You can add more desks or take a bigger room quickly. In a managed office, growth takes more planning. You may need to change the layout or move to a bigger place.

Control over workspace

In a managed office, your team is in charge. You decide how the space works, who comes in, and what the rules are. In a coworking space, the company that owns the space makes the rules. You follow their system.

Showing off your brand

If you want your office to match your brand, a managed office is best. You can show your company’s personality. In a coworking space, you share the space with others, so there’s less room to show off your brand.

Security and privacy

A managed office is more secure. You can install your locks, passwords, and systems to keep data safe. A coworking space is still safe, but many people use the same internet and doors. It’s not ideal for companies that need full privacy.

Also read: What is an open office?

Conclusion

The difference between a managed office and a coworking space is mostly about privacy, cost, control, and how long you plan to stay. If you want a space that’s just for your team, where you can set everything up your way, choose a managed office. If you like meeting people, want to save money, and enjoy a fun, shared place to work, choose a coworking space.

Both options are good; it just depends on what your team needs. Many companies now offer both choices, and WeWork workspaces are a top choice for businesses to thrive. They have managed offices and coworking spaces in many cities. WeWork also offers premium amenities like high-speed internet, 24/7 security, ergonomic furniture, common areas, and tech support all within the facility, so you can set up a comfortable and productive environment for your business.