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2024 Blogs

Winter in the Workplace

Acrylic freestanding office screens

Winter in the workplace can be a difficult time of the year with disagreements on the office temperature and with the amount of colds in circulation. However, it’s a time of year we can prepare for to ensure the majority are happy and healthy.

It’ll come as no surprise as it happens every year, but as the temperature drops and the seasons change the number of colds increase, therefore causing most of the office to get ill. During COVID-19, whilst it was an unusual time and came with long term changes, some of the implementations are just as useful for the winter of 2024.

One of the main messages was to reduce contact with people and wash your hands as much as possible. Even without COVID-19 hanging over us, it’s possible to implement these actions when others are getting ill or COVID is on the rise.

To help with reducing contact, dust off those social distancing screens and arrange them in the office. Making use of existing furniture is both cost effective and efficient and ensures you have the right tools to hand.

The best type of screens to use as protective screens are those with an acrylic or laminate finish. Both materials are easy to clean, yet provide the space with a different look and functionality.
Acrylic goes almost undetected with a slim and clear appearance yet laminate gives a fresh, white finish whilst bringing other benefits to the table.

Looking to reduce contact and create a notice board? The laminate dividers accept dry wipe pens and provide a whiteboard feature.

Along with the use of existing screens, smaller changes can be made too. Such as bringing back hand sanitisers and keeping a steady flow of air throughout the office. Hand sanitisers are inexpensive and can be positioned in spaces that get the busiest, such as a lunchroom or meeting pod. Combining protective screening, sanitisers and increased air flow takes a proactive approach to keeping the office healthier this winter.

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2023 Blogs

What’s New? Delta Velvet Office Screens

Delta Velvet Acoustic Office Screen used in a nursery
Delta Velvet Acoustic Office Screens

As a UK office screen manufacturer, Rap Industries work to improve and adapt the product range, thus having a design for any environment or occasion. The newest screen to the range is the Delta Velvet Office Screen which extends an already existing partition collection.

The Delta Acoustic Office Screen range is known for the unique shape and appearance of the Delta Cloud. Taking a step away from conventional designs and creating a bold statement in the workplace, the Delta Cloud demonstrates how professional and bright work well together.

How are the Delta Velvet Office Screens different?

As part of the Delta Acoustic collection, we utilise the same core, acoustic foam but the difference comes with the fabrics. As the name suggests, the Delta Velvet Office Screens are soft and velvety to touch, which also makes them a great addition to sensory environments. However, the real head turner is the patterned fabric, which is exclusive to the Delta Velvet Screen.

Rather than a standard woven fabric, the Delta Velvet displays a range of patterned fabrics that are versatile across different spaces and fit with many themes. From professional and subtle for a corporate office to animals and numbers for an educational environment, the wide spectrum of patterns will become a focal point and bring an unfinished room together.

As part of the construction, the Delta Screens are acoustic and can be used in open plan rooms and workspaces where noise levels are considered too loud and distracting. The acoustic foam and patterned fabrics work together to help reduce noise and create a comfortable surround for all. For more information about how foam works and the impact they can have on your environment – click here.

Available styles from the Delta Velvet Acoustic Office Screens

As well as the Delta cloud shape, you’ll also find the standard straight style along with a wavetop and curved formation. Whilst the Delta Office Screens don’t use a linking facility, it’s still possible to use multiple panels together to create a width or configuration of choice.

Position the acoustic panels flush against each other to achieve the configuration you require.

All screens are finished with a blue piped edging and finishes the screens in a bold fashion. Trip and wheelchair friendly stability feet are included with each partition and provide the strong and reliable design of the freestanding acoustic screen.

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2022 Blogs

Is It Time to Remove Social Distancing Screens?

Social Distancing Sneeze Screens

We became aware of COVID-19 & Social Distancing at the end of 2019 and as we’re well into 2022 it’s still something we’re aware of and is still causing effect. When the pandemic hit it’s peak, and lock downs were being enforced, it was hard to see when the end was in sight, but levels of normality have returned.

Office spaces were changed, shopping wasn’t the same and being close to others was stopped. Social distancing and screening became a large part of everything we did and was an addition to most spaces that has now become familiar.

The addition of screening, mainly acrylic and laminate dividers, changed the look of the office and put the need for acoustic office screens to the bottom of the pile. The reason acrylic and laminate finishes are suitable is due to the easy clean finishes and the fact they can easily be disinfected.

At one stage, social distancing wasn’t a choice so the need for screening made sense. Creating a divide between desk spaces, making sure safety precautions were in place and well being was at the top of the list.

But now the restrictions have been relaxed, do we think it’s time to take the social distancing screens away?

The screening solutions did the job they were there to do, but even without social distancing rules, we believe there is a place for the acrylic and laminate screens. Being 2m apart isn’t a factor now, so the screening helps to provide protection for those who need it and reminds us that we’re not back to how we were in 2019.

Shops and the retail sectors are still largely using the barriers between cashier and customer, it shows that some ways of working are here to stay.

Freestanding and desktop social distancing screens for office social distancing

Working in an office can limit the space you have available, but with the addition of desktop dividers it makes it easier to decipher which work space is yours. From the clear acrylic point of view you receive the best of both worlds – division and visibility. Securing desks doesn’t need to bring darkness to the space, clear acrylic lets natural light shine through, keeping the office space light, airy and positive.

From an acoustic and noise reduction point of view the social distancing screening isn’t the best option, but for hygiene, you couldn’t find anything more effective. The hard surfaces are ideal to wipe clean but can also withstand stronger cleaning products. If social distancing taught us anything it’s that screening can be clear, modern and incredibly effective.

All in all, we think social distancing screens have a place with or without COVID-19 from a practical, visual and effectiveness point of view.

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2020 Blogs

Social Distancing Screening Range

Social Distancing Sneeze Screens

COVID 19 has taken us all by surprise as we continue to settle into the new ‘norm’ and get to grips with regulations and new ways of working. We’ve been gone a while on the blog front, but we’re back with updates, new products, and everything Social Distancing.

Social Distancing has probably become the phrase of the year to make sure we keep at least 2 metres away from others. By doing so, the aim is to reduce and slow the spread of Coronavirus so we can slowly re-introduce the pleasures of life.

At this time, all we can do is work together, support businesses and keep in line with the government rules. As a UK manufacturer and NHS supplier, we already had many screening solutions available to help with social distancing. However, we wanted to offer a wider selection of screens to all sectors and this is how our new Social Distancing Ranges came into existence.

Easy clean and acrylic finishes was the first stop. As the ability to sanitise workstations and office spaces is key. Not only ideal for cleaning but offering a fresh finish and a modern design that can be used well past the days of Coronavirus.

Within the range we have created freestanding and desktop divider, but what is the difference between these screens?

The freestanding style is a full-length divider, which stands with bases or stability feet. Ideally used to divide large open spaces or to create booths and meeting areas.

The Desktop Divider is a smaller option which attaches to or sits on top of the desk. Allowing you to divide the desk into personal workspaces.

Not to mention using the styles together in any working environment to add as much protection as possible. Being able to provide your colleagues with a safe and secure working zone is at the forefront of all our minds, and with the Social Distancing Range it’s easy to achieve.

We’ll be introducing you to our new screen across the next few weeks, so let’s get started with the Modular Protection Panels.

As one of the first COVID designs we released, it’s fair to say it’s been a popular choice. The Modular Protection Panels use a unique panel and pole system which is specific to us at Rap Industries.

Modular Protection Screens

A freestanding design, which uses a framed clear or frosted acrylic/Perspex panel, silver poles and circular bases. The panel attaches to the pole and can be positioned landscape or portrait. A massive USP is the modular feature. Each panel can be linked to the next, enabling you to create a width and configuration for your space.

Create a bespoke social distancing solution, with the made to order modular panels.

Modular Acrylic Social Distancing Screens

Next, we move on to the Desktop Sneeze Screens

Desktop Sneeze Screen

The Sneeze Screen is a desktop take on the Modular Protection Screen. With the same frame and acrylic options, the Sneeze version can be attached to the desktop with a drill through fixings.

We understand that drill through fixings aren’t for everyone, but with this addition we have been able to extend the heights options. Added screen stability has enabled us to create a divider that adds maximum protection when working at a desk or counter all day.

Social Distancing Sneeze Screens

Now let’s talk about acrylic…

As briefly mentioned, acrylic was a top contender when it came to launching the new screens. Clear and frosted acrylic (also known as Perspex) bring different benefits to the table.

Clear acrylic is suitable when the area needs to be protected but full visibility is required. With the transparent finish you’ll be able to view and monitor different working areas with ease.

Frosted Perspex adds more privacy, with a frosted almost opaque finish. Providing the protection you need but also supplying privacy to those departments who require it.

No matter the finish of the acrylic, both are suitable for the social distancing screens and most importantly are easy to clean throughout that day.

View all our Social Distancing Screens

More Coronavirus updates and information can be found Here

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2020 Blogs

How to lead a team during collaborative work

When you dive into what generates a successful business, the key element which reoccurs is team collaboration.

So, is team collaboration really the cornerstone of business success? and how can you ensure this is the case?

The answer is simple, yes team collaboration changes the dynamics of a business and ensures the best in the trade come together to generate fresh ideas at a quicker pace. To lead a team during collaboration you need to be the best leader possible, and this will motivate, inspire and create a high performing team.

Cocoon collaboration Pod

When looking at how you can guarantee you are on the right path to leading a high performing team there are 6 steps that should be in place throughout.

Step 1

When you find yourself at the start of team collaboration the very first thing you need to do is ensure everyone is on the same page. So, share the company mission and the team goals on the given project. Furthermore, you need to explain the purpose of the team coming together and what the end goal is.

Step 2

You need to make sure everyone goes away from the first meeting knowing exactly what is expected for both the group and individually. Each individual on the collaborate team should know their role, what they need to do, what is expected and by when, and the standard set for all work.

Step 3

You need to use your team to the best of the abilities. Highlight individual strengths and give them tasks in which they excel in. This will ensure they are motivated and engaged while also making them feel valued. Furthermore, this will ensure they bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to the table to maximise the results of the project.

Step 4

Throughout a collaboration project you need to safeguard against individuals not communicating with one another and encourage them to speak up outside of team meetings. In order to do this, you need to use tech tools which enables everyone to communicate freely across the different departments. Additionally, you need a programme which all involved can monitor and edit progress, so everyone is always up to date with how the project is going.

Step 5

Throughout the course of team collaboration, it is vital to hold effective team meetings which stimulate productivity and refocuses all. During these meetings it is vital everyone has an input, discussing their work and how they are progressing. Additionally, these meetings provide the opportunity for all to come together, share their knowledge and insights and generate ideas together to showcase their creativity as a team.

Step 6

The last step is that of being honest and open with the team. Communicating during the course of the project is vital to be a successful leader. You need to be honest when problems arise and let the team help overcome issues. Furthermore, you need to communicate effectively if something is not working and needs changing, do this respectfully and offer support if needed. More importantly, you need to communicate when things have been successful and praise your team, so they do not leave meetings feeling deflated.

These 6 steps will help to create a successful collaboration team that thrive when working together. It is important to lead by example and maintain the standard set for everyone to follow and work to. Collaboration work needs to have a dynamic group of individuals who will all bring something to the table, but they also need a leader who will listen, share their knowledge and guide meetings to maximise the benefits of collaborating as a team, thus leading to greater business success.

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2020 Blogs

[Infographic] 4 Benefits Of Using Standing Office Desks

Sit and stand desks

The subject of 2020 so far is, should we be sitting or standing at our workstations?

With more research being uncovered regarding the dangers of office-based work and sitting for more than 8 hours a day, it is time to implement change?

Standing desks and adjustable height workstations have been welcomed to the market. The new range promotes and encourages standing whilst completing your daily tasks.

As with any new trend, it’s important to get a balance and this will vary from person to person. The height adjustable desks have been designed to switch between sitting and standing heights, supporting a healthy lifestyle with improved productivity.

If you’re new to the standing office desk trend, we’ve listed 4 benefits of why a standing desk could be right for you and your employees.

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2020 Blogs

What Is Activity Based Working (ABW)?

Activity based working in the modern era.

When trying to bloom within to create a highly competitive business with a burning desire to be the best, how do you do this? In the modern era of office structures could Activity Based Working (ABW) simply be the best solution to take you to the top; to help you attract and retain the best talent in your industry; to improve performance, motivation and collaborative work.

What is ABW?

If you are finding yourself wondering about modernising your office environment, you might want to consider ABW. Before doing so you need have a level of awareness on what this entails, the benefits, the problems and solutions.

So, let us explain what ABW means for you. Merely, this is the proposition of opting to transform your office into multiple workstations. Ranging from open seating tables, bookable pods and meeting rooms, breakout areas, casual lounge spaces, booths and huddle spaces. This allows employees to select where to work dependent upon their work each given day.

What are the benefits of ABW?

When thinking about change it is always important to balance out the benefits against the problems that a motion to modernise may bring. Exploring these will be a key tool in establishing if this is a path you wish to pursue.

The first benefit would be how this can help enhance productivity and enjoyment. Each individual is able to schedule their work in a way that best suits what they need to do and who they need to do this with. ABW means they all have optimal options for their day whether it be to work independently or as a team to collaborate content or share group knowledge. Thus, creating a captivating, focused team. Therefore, with a workforce who are focused and enjoying their job comes increased productivity. Additionally, supporting collaborative work means people can collectively put their ideas together on a face-to-face basis.

Secondly, this enhances employees’ autonomy providing them with a level of empowerment over their work. Why you ask? This is due to individuals having the choice of work spaces rather than the same desk daily. In return this will accentuate work ethics and inspire people to work to their best abilities.

Balancing independent and collaborate work becomes effortless and eradicates the challenges of locating a space to work as a team. Juxtaposition to this, individual pods allow for time to work alone in private with ease.

Another advantage would be an increase in employee engagement and culture of connections as a direct result from creating an ABW structure. Employees are no longer tied down to a desk and interact with everyone.

The next benefit would be how ABW can guarantee office space is used more efficiently. Maximising the space can help you to employee further talented individuals without the need to relocate.

Lastly ABW can support the business in the attraction and retention of the best talent. Millenniums tend to shine towards such modern concepts due to the empowerment it provides. It can also be argued how ABW considers the employees well being and creates a sense of trust. Thus, attracting the talent you need to carry your business forward.  ­­­

What problems can arise with ABW? And what are the solutions to overcome them?

There will always be a need to consider the problems which may arise from using ABW. This will help decide whether ABW is still for your business.

The first problem to mention would be the excess noise which comes with this structure. This is easily resolved with the use of acoustic pods, screens and seating booths.

The second problem is it will be on a first come first serve when needing an area to work. However, the use of an electronic booking system with time slots ensure everyone is aware when an area such as a pod/booth is being used. Thus, minimising disruptions and safeguarding against any delays in employees’ meetings.

The third problem would link to the resistance to change. Some employees may not be happy with the idea of ABW and would rather they all have their own personal desk. Running meetings and training sessions to demonstrate the benefits would help them understand the change and why this would be valuable to the company and employees.

The last problem to mention would be the reduced space for storage of personal belongings. However, by providing lockers for people to use at their own choice would resolve such problem.

So, if the problems sound like something you can overcome then you can reap in the benefits ABW can bring. Create a detailed plan, speak to your current employees and take the opportunity.

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2019 Blogs

Office Personalities:- Which one are you?

As you look around your office, I can be more than certain that you have a whole host of personalities. Some that work and some that clash, but nevertheless personalities that need to be there to add diversity, create friendships and build your office workplace dynamic.

That being said, we have listed some of the office personalities you might find wondering around the work place as we speak. Have a read through our light-hearted list to see who you work with and which one you might be.

The Home Time Hero

You can’t deny this person the title. Isn’t it a dream leaving on time when you’ve had a busy day, to rush home and put your feet up?  The home time hero will be out the door on the dot, every night. You can choose to sit back and watch or join them to beat the traffic.

The Morning Person

The name says it all, this person either loves the morning or is just rather loud first thing. It’s quite possible they have had 3 coffees already or they might just be really happy to see you. That’s for you to decide.

The Cake Maker

Our personal favourite. The office cake maker has a special place in our hearts, they bring in homemade bakes and cakes and they always taste so good. No matter the day or if you’re counting the calories, there’s always space for a slice of cake.

The Pen Stealer

This is quite a broad category and from time to time you might be a pen thief yourself. But we have those colleagues who wonder over, use OUR pen and make a note and you know you’ll never see your favourite pen again.

Tip – Keep a drawer full of pens, just in case.

The Netflix Expert

Another great person to have in the office. You’ll never need to scroll through Netflix again, because this person has done it for you. They’ve watched the films and have some recommendations for you. So, all you have to do is sit back, watch and enjoy.

The Messy Desk

Our advice – don’t leave paper on the messy desk as chances are it will never be found again. This person will be known for a messy desk but will claim they can find everything and that it’s the perfect way to file. Who are we to argue their logic?

The Tea Extraordinaire

If you’re busy, having a bad day or just need a good cuppa, it’s important to call this person in to make you the best drink you’ve had all day. The right amount of milk and sugar to cheer you up and make the day that little bit better.

After reading our list – which one are you and who do you work with?

Categories
2019 Blogs

Are you prepared for your upcoming exhibition?

Exhibition Stand at Tradeshow

The question of the day – Are you prepared for your upcoming exhibition?

An exhibition or event really gives you and your business the time to shine, it’s vital that you have everything in place to showcase yourself in the best possible light. Whilst preparation is a huge part of exhibiting, you may as well go overboard and ensure your design and plans are perfect.

The pressure when planning can build but at the end of the show, each exhibitor is looking for the same thing – new customers and new relationships.

To make sure you haven’t missed a thing, we’ve made a list of some things to think about to ensure you are prepared for your upcoming tradeshow, event or exhibition.

Build the stand

Take it from us, completing a dry run before the big day will be incredibly useful. There are several reasons why you should be building the stand before you attend the event: –

  • If the stand is new to you, it’s important to get your head around the technique needed to have a polished professional display. Doing a practice will allow you to understand how it connects and how to attach any graphics to create a seamless look.
  • The last thing you need is to get to the event and see the print is wrong or the stand isn’t the right size. Thoroughly checking over the text and print is also key.
  • Time is always of the essence. Time yourself to see how long it takes, this way you won’t be rushed or surprised with the time it takes to have your display looking perfect.

Promoting

You might be thinking – my stand will do the promoting. Which of course is correct, but you also need to consider the marketing of the event before you attend. Let your customers know your attending and invite them to come and visit your exhibition stand.

Social media, word of mouth and emails are great ways to get the word out there. All the platforms give the opportunity to promote where you will be, the event you are attending and why they should be coming to see you. What will your stand offer? Where will you be located? And finally, let them know you can’t wait to meet them.

Plan who will be attending

This is the time to pick carefully. The team you choose to attend the event will be representing the company. It’s crucial your team are well trained, understand your products or services and love speaking to people.

There’s a saying people buy from people, and we agree. An event gives you the floor to flaunt your product and gain interest with the end game of growing your business and building on your clients. Pick your exhibition team with care and ensure they will welcome guests to the stand, making them feel at ease and comfortable.

Double check your to-do list

It’s without a doubt that you will have a list as long as your arm (if not longer). An exhibition to-do list has many check boxes and will continue to grow as your requirements begin to build.

A to-do list is great, it provides a sense of organisation and gives a clear indication of what you have left to complete. However, we cannot stress enough that you must check, check and check again. You’re so busy, mistakes are easy to make and it’s crucial the day runs as smoothly as possible.

So, check through your list, make sure it is all completed and most importantly you haven’t missed anything off!

Travel

Only a minor thing and will only take 10 minutes or so. But make sure you know where you are going and the route you will take. Whether you plan to drive or take public transport, map out your journey with any stops, connections or alternations needed to make sure you arrive on time.

If you’re late this could eat into the time you require to build your display stand.

Exhibition Stand at Tradeshow

Categories
2019 Blogs

Changing your exhibition stand from old to bold.

How will you change your exhibition stand from old to bold? Adding, tweaking, styling and creativity is a great place to start.

With the exhibition season in full swing, you’ll be attending trade shows and events to promote your business and services. As you step around the exhibition hall, you’ll see extravagant stands, smaller spaces and quirky set ups.

All of which will pack a punch in their own way, just make sure you don’t miss out on the opportunity to wow your potential customers and make an impact.

It doesn’t matter if your stand is old or new, cost effective tweaks can be made to create a breath-taking stand to steal the show. Take full control of planning for this summer’s events and ramp up your creativity to get the result you desire.

We’re here to share some trade secrets, from tips, designs and stand creations. So, let us walk you through some options to transform, build and sculpt your dream stand.

Reuse Your Stand

Dig out your old stand and reuse it. You made an investment when you originally purchased the stand, so why not get the use out of it?

Replacing the printed graphics is a cost-effective way to give the illusion you have a new stand. Adding replacement graphics gives you the chance to rework your message, style and stand colours. Being sure to update any relevant business information, logos and addresses.

Bespoke it

If time and budget is on your side. The complete bespoke route is an amazing journey to take. This is where you sit down, make some drawings and really design what you want and make your vision a reality.

Allowing you to see no limitations and being as extravagant or as under stated as you so wish. You hold all the cards to create a unique and individual display.

2m x 4m Exhibition Bundle

Deluxe Upgrade Kits

Each of the Streamline and Pop Up Stands come supplied with a carry case. Enabling you to take the stands from venue to venue with no fuss. Don’t let the plain black fool you when it comes to the carry case, it can be more than just a case.

The deluxe kit consists of a printed graphic wrap and printed acrylic top. Both of which can be added to the carry case, transforming this into a branded podium/counter. If the lights are included, these are perfect to add to the main display.

Stand accessories

Adding new stand accessories is another way to bring changes to your overall stand look. Even if you’re using the same display stand, adding new accessories can rejuvenate your stand design and ensure you don’t look the same for each event.

Incorporating new print and artwork on to something as simple as a roller banner or printed plinth, could be just enough to make a difference.

Regardless of your budget or stand design, there’s always a way to add something new, change what you have and create a new display.


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