Growing numbers of small companies and home businesses seeking greater support and a better image

Regus, the world’s largest provider of flexible workspace, has reported a 54 percent increase in demand for virtual office services year on year (June 2010 compared to 2011).  

With thousands of customers in South Africa the company attributes rising demand for virtual offices to home-based and small businesses looking for workspace support that is low cost, low risk, and can dramatically increase productivity. Deeren Dulai, Dell Account Executive (South Africa) sees clear benefits from having a virtual office: “Using a Regus virtual office gives me a prestigious, Durban business address, without the inconvenience of setting up an office there. I can work on the move, wherever I need to be, or take the day off, secure that someone will answer the phone and take mail deliveries.”

Therese Meyer, Commercial Director, Regus Africa adds: “Even though the economy in South Africa is recovering, small businesses are acutely aware of the need to control spending. Virtual offices offer home businesses, start-ups and companies entering the South African market the benefits of a staffed office – such as a professional business address and a professional receptionist to answer the phone – without the expense, risk and management time of setting up a physical presence.”

Regus offers a range of virtual office services, including business address to use on company stationery, dedicated local phone number and receptionist to answer calls, mail collection and handling and access to private offices or meeting rooms. 

All those services allow businesses to project an impressive image to clients and customers, without the expense of leasing professional workspace, or hiring their own administrative staff. Some use their virtual office as a permanent arrangement; others use it as a staging post, before they expand to a physical presence – often at the same Regus business address.

How could your design practice benefit from a virtual office? Do industrial / architectural designers partake in the nomadic office lifestyle, or do they always need something more permanent? Is "outsourcing" your office management an exciting proposition for designers?

Find out more about the Regus Virtual Office by calling 0860 018 407 or clicking here...