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CSS Case Study: The Power of Recurring Office Furniture Maintenance

The Story of Monitor Arms
& Saving Costs!

Knowing that proactive maintenance is far more cost-effective than reactive repairs matters. It really does!

Yet, many businesses or spaces only address furniture wear-and-tear when it becomes a noticeable issue, leading to avoidable expenses, employee discomfort, and workspace inefficiencies.

A structured, recurring furniture maintenance program (scheduled every few months, quarterly, or annually based on space or furniture needs) ensures assets remain safe, functional, and cost-projectable while minimizing employee or space disruptions. From private or open work areas and seating in offices or lobbies to monitor arms and conference tables, preventive servicing extends longevity, reduces unexpected replacement costs, and supports overall best practices for space functionality.

The Challenge: Hidden Costs of Workplace Neglect

It happens to all of us. We assume if it isn’t broken, it doesn’t need to be fixed – but it does need maintenance to keep it from breaking!

One of our corporate clients, managing a high-traffic office environment spanning over multiple floors in downtown Calgary, began noticing monitor arm instability across multiple workstations and private offices.

Employees reported loosening joints, screen drifting, and difficulty adjusting ergonomic positions, causing frustration and reduced productivity.

Without a structured servicing plan, the facility team required multiple service calls randomly, reaching out each time an employee concern arose and reactively replacing faulty equipment, incurring unnecessary expenditures. The cycle of replacing rather than maintaining was proving costly, and leadership needed a sustainable solution.

Photo Caption:
While this photo doesn’t necessarily showcase the monitor arms in use throughout the space, it offers a clear idea of what a monitor arm is and how much they can vary between brands. With each model featuring its own unique components that need to be realigned, adjusted, and checked regularly, it’s easy to see why we recommend a proactive maintenance program.

The Solution: A Recurring, Pre-Scheduled Maintenance Program

CSS Office Solutions stepped in to implement a structured furniture maintenance schedule, ensuring monitor arms (and other office assets) were regularly inspected, adjusted, and serviced.

Each pre-scheduled maintenance program varies based on individual client needs.

The maintenance program was customized for this client’s needs, offering in-office pre-scheduled service visits every 4 months, with CSS on-site representatives ensuring that:

  • Monitor arm tension and stability remained optimal, preventing drifting screens.
  • Joint lubrication and realignment maintained smooth adjustability.
  • Minor wear-and-tear issues were addressed early, preventing costly replacements.
  • A detailed monitor arm asset-status report was provided to the appropriate departments.

Rather than waiting for equipment failures or safety concerns to arise, the facility management team embraced proactive servicing as a key part of their asset strategy, ensuring maintenance took place before issues escalated. Partnering with trusted advisors like CSS supported the facilities team in presenting a sustainable, forward-thinking solution to company leaders, who quickly recognized the long-term value and efficiency of the maintenance program.

This is a strong example of leadership prioritizing proactive decision-making over reactive fixes, reducing the need for last-minute repairs and emergency service calls while fostering a more strategic approach to workspace management.

Key Results: Cost Savings & Workplace Efficiency

Through this recurring furniture care plan, the client saw measurable improvements:

  1. Significant Cost Reduction – With ongoing servicing, monitor arm replacements dropped by 40%, resulting in thousands of dollars in savings.
  2. Improved Ergonomics & Employee Satisfaction – Properly maintained monitor arms in the work areas enhanced comfort and productivity, reducing workplace frustration.
  3. Optimized Facility Operations – Maintenance was pre-scheduled, seamlessly aligning with the company’s broader workspace management strategy.
  4. Reduced Capital Waste – The shift from reactive replacements to preventive care optimized asset longevity, saving the company from frequent product purchases.

Takeaways for Workplace Leaders & Facility Professionals

Businesses that invest in structured maintenance programs see measurable benefits, including cost savings, improved workspace efficiency, and enhanced employee satisfaction. Regular servicing of office furniture, from workstations to shared spaces, helps prevent unnecessary expenses and ensures a professional, well-maintained environment.

Structured furniture maintenance programs provide tangible benefits:

  • Lower operational costs through extended asset lifespan.
  • Smoother client/employee experiences in managed spaces.
  • Compliance with ergonomic wants and workplace standards while boosting productivity.

Organizations that prioritize proactive maintenance over reactive repairs not only extend the life of their assets but also streamline facility operations, reducing disruptions and emergency service costs. Whether it’s through scheduled servicing or ongoing workspace assessments, investing in workplace care contributes to long-term asset stability and operational success.

CSS is here to help with all your commercial furniture services and needs!

A Smarter Approach to Workplace Maintenance

Investing in recurring furniture maintenance isn’t just about keeping office spaces looking polished! It’s about saving costs, supporting employee well-being, and ensuring long-term efficiency.

Whether your space includes monitor arms, workstations, seating, or you’re in a shared space, a structured preventive servicing plan keeps everything in optimal working order while eliminating unnecessary expenses.

At CSS, we support facility managers, corporate leaders, and others to maximize their commercial furniture assets through proactive care! If your office furniture could benefit from pre-scheduled cost-saving servicing, let’s work together to build a maintenance program that fits your needs, timeline, and budget.

Ready to optimize your workplace and protect your investments?

Let’s start the conversation today!

CSS Office Solutions – FAQ’s 2024

Throughout 2024, we featured a Friday FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) series across our social media platforms. This blog compiles answers to some of the most common questions asked by our clients, providing quick and accessible insights into industry-specific topics.

These FAQs, organized by the month they were featured, offer a glimpse into the types of solutions we provide daily. If you’d like more information on any of these tips or have additional questions, feel free to reach out to our office anytime!

Stay tuned for exciting updates in 2025. While we won’t continue monthly FAQ posts, we remain committed to being your trusted advisors and answering your questions whenever you need assistance.

January – The Importance of Residue-Free Moving Labels

When it comes to moving or identification labels, adhesive quality matters. At CSS, we use high-quality moving labels designed to stick securely when needed but peel off easily without leaving sticky residue behind. This ensures your items stay damage-free and simplifies the unpacking process.

Pro Tip: Before applying a label, check if it’s designed for easy removal. Choosing the right label can save time and effort during your move!

FAQ Friday Labels

February – Customizable Whiteboards for Every Space

Whiteboards are versatile tools for planning and collaboration, available in various materials like glass, porcelain, painted steel, and more. Over the past 40 years, we’ve seen whiteboards evolve to meet the changing needs of offices, schools, hospitals, and more.

One of our favorite options? Fully customizable whiteboards! Whether it’s company-branded colors or unique designs, if you can imagine it, it can be created.

Pro Tip: Upgrade your workspace with a whiteboard tailored to your specific needs for maximum functionality and style.

CSS FAQ's - whiteboards

March – The Versatility of File and Electronic Carts

File carts, or electronic carts, are essential tools in the office moving industry. They’re not just for files and electronics; they can also transport small boxes, decorative items, plants, and more.

While the basic design of these carts hasn’t changed much, the efficiency gains from slimmer computers and lighter files have made them even more valuable.

Pro Tip: Evaluate your equipment needs during a move to ensure maximum efficiency and cost savings.

CSS FAQ - File Carts

April – Quick Shipping for Faster Results

Quick ship programs allow for faster delivery of commercial furniture, with items arriving in as little as 1-2 weeks instead of the usual 4-8 weeks. This can be a game-changer for tight deadlines and high-priority projects.

Pro Tip: Ask your provider about Quick Ship options to meet your timelines without compromising quality.

CSS FAQ's - Quick Shipping

May, June, July – A Note on Our Own Move

During these months, we paused our FAQ series to focus on our own warehouse and operations relocation. While not the largest move in our 40-year history, it was an eye-opening experience! Lessons learned during our transition reaffirm the importance of planning and coordination.

August – Plan Early for Seamless Transitions

It’s never too early to plan! Early preparation ensures resources are optimized, disruptions are minimized, and deadlines are met.

Benefits of Early Planning:

✅ Optimize resources

✅ Minimize disruptions

✅ Enhance functionality and efficiency

✅ Align with future growth

Pro Tip: Connect with us as soon as you know about an upcoming project or move to start collaborating on a seamless plan.

CSS FAQ's - Plan Early

September – The Importance of Proper Ergonomic Setup

Ergonomics is about more than just selecting the right furniture; it’s about setting it up correctly. Proper ergonomic setup can enhance comfort, productivity, and health while preventing common issues like back pain and repetitive strain injuries.

Pro Tip: Optimize your workspace by adjusting your chair, desk, and monitor to align with your body’s needs. Proper setup ensures you’re getting the full benefit of your ergonomic investments.

CSS FAQ's - Ergonomics

October – Extend the Life of Your Furniture with Maintenance

Did you know that regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your commercial furniture? Monthly or yearly check-ups can catch wear and tear early and ensure proper adjustments are made to prevent long-term damage.

Pro Tip: Schedule preventative maintenance to keep your furniture looking and functioning like new.

CSS FAQ's - Furniture Maintenance

November – Managed Warehouse Services Simplified

Managed warehouse services streamline the storage and handling of office furniture and inventory. Key benefits include:

✅ Flexible storage options

✅ Secure facilities

✅ On-demand delivery and installation

✅ Precise inventory management

✅ Comprehensive support

Pro Tip: Choose a warehouse partner that prioritizes security and organization to safeguard your assets.

CSS FAQ's - Warehouse Storage

December – Festive Decorating Tips for the Office

Celebrate the holidays while keeping your workspace functional! Use subtle decor like greenery, holiday-themed accent pillows, or a small tree to add festive cheer without overwhelming the space. Soft, warm lighting can also create a cozy atmosphere.

Pro Tip: Keep decorations simple and chic to maintain efficiency while celebrating the season.

CSS FAQ's - Holidays

This FAQ blog post highlights some of the most common questions we’ve encountered as a commercial furniture service provider in 2024. We hope this serves as a helpful resource and answers any queries you may have had.

If you didn’t find the information you were looking for, our team is always here to help. CSS Office Solutions values educating and supporting our clients—because informed clients make the best decisions.

Do you have a question you’d like answered in an FAQ format? Let us know by clicking here!