Coworking space practices: assessing space users’ preferences and challenges in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose Coworking spaces are recent developments in commercial property investment portfolio in Nigeria. Given the user-centered nature of coworking space practices, the purpose of this paper is to examine the factors influencing users’ preference for coworking, and the challenges associated with the use of coworking spaces in the emerging Nigeria property market. Design/methodology/approach This study used a quantitative research approach. This study sampled nine (9) traditional coworking spaces in Ibadan property market, from which 15 coworking space users were randomly selected in each of the coworking hubs. From a total of 135 respondents, only 45 (33.33%) questionnaires were retrieved and found suitable for analysis. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings The results showed that economic and social motivators were significant drivers influencing coworkers’ decision to cowork. Personal factors were the least rated. Also, top-rated features/facilities that users prefer in the workstations include a neat environment and conveniences, uninterrupted power supply, serenity of the neighborhood and ease of signing up. The findings also showed that the challenges being faced by the users were predominantly about disturbance/noise from guests and/or other users, lack of privacy, poor internet connectivity, power failure and inability to personalize workspace (in decreasing order). Practical implications This study has implications for investors and users of coworking spaces in comparable developing markets. Also, the study will influence strategies and decisions of private firms/companies, as it relates to the work pattern of their employees. Originality/value This paper is relevant given the emergent behavioral changes, necessitated by the changing work practices. This compels the need for a reevaluation of the preferences and challenges associated with coworking spaces, especially as it relates to the users of flexible office spaces in emerging economies.