Karachi is not only Pakistan’s largest city but also the largest business powerhouse. The city offers a diverse range of workspace options for companies of all sizes. Being a business hub, Karachi has plenty of workspace options – and according to Owl Labs, offering flexible workspace options can improve employee retention by 20-30% due to better work-life balance and greater job satisfaction.
With so many options available for workspaces, selecting only the right one can make a difference and outshine the others. So, if you’re ready to turn the tables, let’s see what we need to know.
Traditional Office Spaces
Traditional office space refers to a dedicated, permanent office setup that companies rent or lease for a fixed period, which is mostly long-term.
Rent:
Traditional office spaces are normally expensive due to the long-term commitments and additional setup costs. However, location will also decide the rent. Prime areas like I.I. Chundrigar Road and Clifton demand higher rental prices, while areas like Korangi offer more affordable options.
Location:
Central business districts (CBDs) such as I.I. Chundrigar Road provide a prestigious yet convenient address for businesses. Other areas like Gulshan-e-Iqbal or DHA Phase 8 offer a balance between affordability and proximity to business hubs.
Security Concerns:
To be honest, no matter which location you choose in Karachi, always stay aware yourself. Karachi’s high-profile business areas are generally more secure.
Transportation:
Being a busy business base, traffic in Karachi is a significant issue. Companies should consider employee accessibility and client convenience when selecting a location. Areas like Saddar or Clifton are well-connected but prone to traffic jams, whereas newer areas like DHA Phase 8 provide easier access to public transport.
Co-working Spaces
A co-working space is an on-demand office environment where professionals can rent workspace as needed, from a few hours to a full-time membership. There is no need to set up anything or manage of any kind. Global Workspace Analytics suggests that Businesses can save up to 30% in operational costs by opting for co-working spaces or serviced offices compared to traditional long-term office leases.
Rent:
Co-working spaces are highly cost-effective, offering flexible rental options ranging from daily to monthly plans. One such affordable option is Kickstart, which offers highly satisfactory service at the best affordable price.
Location:
Many of Karachi’s co-working spaces are located in upscale areas like Clifton, DHA, and Shahrah-e-Faisal, providing easy access to business clients and transportation links.
Security Concerns:
Co-working spaces usually offer high security, which is included in the rent. But, remember that location and co-working space reputation will play a significant role in security.
Transportation:
The central locations of most co-working spaces make them easily accessible via public transport and ride-hailing services. However, traffic in Karachi can still be a challenge, so businesses should choose locations wisely.
Serviced Offices
Serviced offices are ready-to-use office spaces available for short—or long-term use. They are not only ready to use but also a lavish option as a workspace. In Karachi, serviced offices can be found in locations like Clifton, DHA, and Shahrah-e-Faisal.
Rent
The cost of serviced offices is way more than that of co-working spaces, but the cost is totally worth it. The rent typically includes utilities, internet, and other services that value the rent.
Location:
Serviced offices in Karachi are typically located in demanded business areas like Shahrah-e-Faisal and Clifton. These areas are close to major business hubs, making them convenient for client meetings and networking.
Security Concerns
Serviced offices come with built-in security features with no extra need for security equipment or even extra cost.
Transportation:
The central locations of serviced offices make them easily accessible for both employees and clients, no matter whether they’re traveling local or chauffeur.
Satellite Offices
A satellite office is a secondary location that a company establishes to support its primary headquarters, which is somewhere very remote. In Karachi, satellite offices are commonly set up in areas like Korangi, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, or Malir.
Rent:
Satellite offices are typically more affordable than traditional offices since they are often located in less central areas or commercial zones, and there is no rental restriction.
Location:
Satellite offices can be located anywhere, but it’s preferable to set them up in emerging areas like Korangi or Malir, where rent is lower.
Security Concerns:
Depending on the location, satellite offices may require additional security measures. Companies setting up satellite offices in less secure areas must invest in their own security infrastructure. Don’t forget to count this factor in the overall cost.
Transportation:
While outer areas of Karachi, like Malir or Korangi, may have fewer transportation options, they are becoming increasingly accessible due to ongoing infrastructure development.
Pop-Up Offices
Pop-up offices are temporary workspaces set up for short-term purposes, mostly for a project or event. Like its name, companies can pop up their office anywhere, anytime.
Rent:
Rent for pop-up offices is typically short-term, which can be more expensive in the short run but cost-effective for businesses that only need space for a limited time.
Location:
Pop-up offices can be set up in any location, but it’s always preferable to take advantage of high foot traffic or proximity to key business areas. Commercial venues in Clifton, Saddar, or Korangi can be good options.
Security Concerns:
Since pop-up offices are temporary, businesses will need to ensure security measures are in place, depending on the location. Event venues may already have built-in security, but additional precautions may be necessary. Don’t take it easy on yourself.
Transportation:
Pop-up offices can be located anywhere, allowing businesses to choose locations that are convenient for employees and clients alike. This flexibility makes them ideal for short-term projects in high-traffic areas.
Conclusion
Karachi is already a business hub, so to stand out in the crowd, your company needs to be very strategic. Choosing the right office type can make or break your presence. Gallup’s 2020 Workplace Survey found that 60% of employees feel more engaged when they have access to versatile, comfortable work environments—making flexible workspaces ideal for enhancing employees’ satisfaction and performance.
To fully ensure that your company turns the tables and makes its mark, Kickstart can be an outstanding option for any company. Its professional, safe, and productive environment is enough to give employees a sense of freshness and creativity, which you’re gonna need to leave an impression.
