SHARED WORKSPACES

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Shared workspaces, also known as coworking, are places where freelancers, entrepreneurs and companies share a common workspace. In these locations, users can rent a desk, a meeting room or a private office depending on their needs. Shared workspaces They often offer a wide range of services and amenities, from high-speed internet to lounges and cafeterias.

Shared workspaces emerged as an alternative to the traditional home office or coworking space, as they offer greater flexibility, a larger work community and a more social working environment. In addition, shared workspaces are often cheaper than the option of renting a private office or the cost of a mortgage, making them a popular choice for those looking to save on start-up costs.

Shared workspaces have also proven to be beneficial for collaboration and networking among their users, as they encourage interaction and the exchange of ideas between the companies and entrepreneurs sharing the space. This can lead to new business opportunities and collaborative projects.

Overall, coworking spaces are a flexible and affordable solution for those looking for a workplace away from home, with a close working community and a wide range of services and amenities.

Types of shared workspaces

There are several types of shared workspaces, each with its own characteristics and benefits.

Some of the most common types are listed below:

1. Coworking (+): is the best known type of shared workspace. Here, freelancers, freelancers and small businesses share a common workspace. It offers flexibility in terms of contract duration and is ideal for those looking for a coworking community. 
2. Shared offices: This type of shared workspace is similar to a coworking space, but is aimed at larger companies. Instead of sharing a common space, each company has its own private office, but shares common areas such as reception, kitchen and meeting rooms.
3. Business centre: are shared workspaces that offer additional services such as a business address, incoming calls, courier services and other office services. They are often used by companies that need a physical presence in a particular city. see TIP
4. Business incubators (+): This type of shared workspace is designed to support startups and entrepreneurs. It offers advisory services, mentoring, funding resources and connections to investors.
5. Fablabs: are shared workspaces for the creation of physical products and prototypes. They offer tools, equipment and materials necessary for the creation of prototypes and products (see TIP).
6. Maker spaces: spaces designed for entrepreneurs and professionals who require specialised tools and technologies to carry out their projects, such as carpentry tools, 3D printers, welding equipment, etc. (see TIP).
7. Innovation centres and business accelerators: spaces that focus on supporting businesses as they grow and expand, providing not only workspace, but also mentoring, funding and resources to help them grow (see TIP).
8. Coworking spaces focused on women entrepreneurs: shared workspaces that focus on creating a community of women entrepreneurs, providing not only workspace, but also mentoring, training and resources to help women develop their projects.
9. Coworking spaces for artists and creatives: shared workspaces that focus on supporting artists and creatives by providing an inspiring environment and resources to carry out creative projects, such as recording studios, art workshops, among others.
10. Coworking spaces in rural areas: shared workspaces that are located in rural areas, providing an alternative for entrepreneurs who are looking for a quiet and natural environment in which to develop their work.
11. Corporate coworking spaces: shared workspaces owned by corporate companies and used to foster innovation and collaboration among the company's employees.

Advantages of shared spaces for entrepreneurs

Some advantages of shared workspaces for entrepreneurs are:

1. Cost savings: renting your own office can be expensive for a start-up entrepreneur, but by sharing a workspace, the costs are divided among the members of the space, resulting in significant savings.
2. Flexibility: shared spaces often offer flexible rental plans that adapt to the needs of each entrepreneur. In addition, not being tied to a long-term contract makes it easier to change space or expand the team in case the company grows.
3. Networking: in the shared spaces, entrepreneurs have the opportunity to interact with other professionals from different sectors, which can result in new business opportunities, collaborations and learning.
4. Infrastructure: Shared spaces are usually equipped with everything needed to work, such as furniture, internet, meeting rooms and breakout areas. This allows entrepreneurs to focus on their work without worrying about space management.
5. Community: in a shared space, entrepreneurs form part of a community of professionals who share the same concerns and objectives. This creates a motivating and enriching environment that helps to maintain motivation and commitment at work.