Working on the road in a well-designed mobile workspace increases efficiency, productivity, and the ability to serve customers’ needs. Since you or your client will be spending a significant amount of time in the mobile office, it’s important to accurately determine needs before purchasing, because poor design can negatively impact productivity and health.
If you’re not sure where to begin the process of creating a mobile office, this checklist will help. It provides a step-by-step guide to help you to design the perfect mobile office for your unique needs.
1. Determine Your Interior Space Requirements
There are many things to consider when determining how much space you’ll need in your mobile office. Do you need space for….
- Equipment
- Product Samples
- Hosting Customers
- File Storage
- Co-Workers
- Other
2. Select the Right Vehicle for the Job
Do you…
- Work in rugged terrain or harsh winters → 4-wheel drive crew cab pickup truck
- Work in an urban area or use parking garages → small or mid-size van, 4-door sedan, or an SUV
- Have a large amount of equipment or work with customers in your mobile workspace → full-size van
3. Evaluate Your Mobile Office Equipment Requirments
Do you use a…
- Laptop
- Printer
- Scanner
- External Monitor
- Cell Phone Charger
- Docking Station
- Specialized or Testing Equipment
- Paper Shredded
- Other
4. Assess Your Lighting Needs
Proper lighting and computer glare is often overlooked but is critical to avoid eye strain. Working in a vehicle adds even more challenges.
Will you be working…
- On a computer
- In bright sunlight
- In the evening
- For long periods of time
- With paperwork
5. Determine Power Requirments
Additional types of power equipment may be needed to accommodate your mobile office needs. Based on the answers in 3 and 4, will you be using…?
- Power outlets
- USB outlets
- AC/DC power inverter / Needed for computer equipment
- Auxiliary battery / needed for additional electrical power
- Other
6. Other Considerations
Safety, work conditions, and climate are also important to think about. Safety equipment, HVAC and insulation may be needed if you…
- Work in extreme hot or cold climates
- Work in a cargo van
- Idle your engine for extended periods of time