It has a real feel to it: the buzz of collaboration, the quiet hum of focus, and the casual exchanges of ideas that spark breakthroughs.
Flex labs are not just workspaces — they can be more. But creating a sense of connection doesn’t happen by accident, and it takes more than a sign-up sheet and some coffee to get there.
In the coworking world, community is the cornerstone of success. People join not just for the desk but for the chance to meet, network, and grow alongside others. Shared labs are no different. The researchers and innovators working in these spaces crave meaningful connections, mentorship, and a sense of belonging, just as much as they need access to state-of-the-art equipment.
That’s where Coworks space management software shines. Designed to help lab operators prioritize community alongside operations, Coworks brings lessons from coworking spaces into the dynamic world of shared labs. Here’s how building community in your lab space can unlock new levels of collaboration, innovation, and success.
Why community matters in shared labs
Why does community even matter in a research-driven environment? After all, isn’t the point of a lab to run experiments, not make friends?
Not exactly.
Research is rarely a solo endeavor. Even the most independent projects benefit from input, feedback, and diverse perspectives. A strong lab community makes it easy to connect with others who might have the expertise you’re missing, the tool you need, or the solution to your latest roadblock.
It’s also good for morale. Working in a shared space can feel isolating without opportunities to build relationships. People who feel connected to their environment are more engaged, more productive, and more likely to stick around. And for lab managers, member retention is just as critical as running the operations smoothly.
Create a welcoming environment for researchers
The foundation of any community is creating a space where people feel comfortable. This starts with the physical layout — welcoming common areas, spaces designed for casual interaction, and plenty of natural light — but it doesn’t end there. A shared lab’s culture is just as important as its architecture.
Coworks software makes it easy to establish a welcoming environment by helping managers track and engage with their members.
For example, every member has a profile that shows their expertise, interests, and even a bit about their current projects. This information can help new members feel like part of the team from day one, whether through introductions to other researchers or tailored onboarding resources.
And because Coworks tracks resource usage, lab managers can anticipate what new members might need to feel supported. It’s all about creating an environment where members feel seen and valued, not just like another name on the booking schedule.
Facilitate scientific collaboration through personal connection
Community doesn’t just happen. It needs a spark.
Researchers might sit at neighboring benches for months without realizing how much they have in common or how their work could complement each other’s. That’s why shared labs need tools and systems that actively encourage collaboration.
Coworks helps bridge these gaps by acting as a digital hub for your lab. Members can browse profiles to find others working in related fields or with skills they’d like to tap into. Coworks even allows managers to host virtual or in-person meet-and-greet sessions, where researchers can introduce their projects and discuss potential collaborations.
For example, a materials scientist might connect with a bioengineer working on a related project, leading to a partnership neither would have imagined. These kinds of connections are what take a shared lab from being a space where research happens to a space where innovation thrives.
Host events that matter
Nothing brings people together like a shared experience, and events are a perfect way to strengthen your lab’s community. From casual coffee hours to formal workshops, events give members a chance to step away from their projects and engage with the people around them.
Coworks makes event management simple. With its integrated calendar and communication tools, lab managers can schedule and promote events directly to members. Whether it’s a guest speaker sharing the latest advancements in nanotechnology or a hands-on training session for new equipment, these events create shared moments that bring your community closer together.
And it’s not just about professional growth. Social events, like happy hours or game nights, can break down barriers and encourage researchers to connect on a personal level. Sometimes, the best ideas come from conversations that start with “What are you working on?” over a cup of coffee.
Make mentorship part of the culture
One of the greatest strengths of a shared lab community is the diversity of expertise it brings together. Established researchers work alongside early-career scientists, creating opportunities for mentorship that benefit both sides.
With Coworks, lab managers can easily facilitate mentorship programs. Profiles make it clear who has the skills and experience to mentor others, and Coworks tools help pair mentors with mentees based on shared goals and interests. You can even use the software to schedule one-on-one sessions or group workshops that foster these relationships.
Mentorship doesn’t just help mentees—it strengthens the community as a whole. People are more likely to invest in the success of a shared space when they feel like they’re contributing to something bigger than themselves.
The role of software in building connection
Community-building in a shared lab might sound like an abstract goal, but it’s not. It’s a tangible process that requires the right tools to succeed. Coworks space management software was designed with this in mind, blending practical features for scheduling and resource management with innovative tools for fostering collaboration and connection.
By prioritizing community alongside operations, Coworks helps lab managers create spaces where researchers aren’t just doing great work—they’re thriving together. And when your lab’s community is strong, the work that comes out of it will be stronger, too.
Because at the end of the day, a shared lab isn’t just a place to work. It’s a place to grow, connect, and discover something new, together.
