Workspace Equipment Budget

We provide a budget for teammates to maintain one workspace setup. Our intention is for everyone to have comfortable and ergonomically healthy environments from which to work.

thoughtbot also provides everyone with a computer which is purchased differently and not included in your personal Workspace Equipment Budget.

Within the budget allotment, equipment purchased after accepting an offer to join our team may be submitted for reimbursement. Save all receipts for reimbursement. The budget can be used when purchasing new or used items, including those purchased directly from an individual and lacking a standard store receipt. In lieu of a standard store receipt, you may submit proof of purchase, such as a Venmo screenshot, for reimbursement.

Americas Region

  • Up to $2,000 USD over your first 3-year period
  • This budget resets to $1,000 USD every 3-year period thereafter

Europe, Middle East, Africa Region (EMEA)

  • Up to £1500 GBP over your first 3-year period
  • This budget resets to £750 GBP every 3-year period thereafter

Agreements

By using this benefit, you agree to the following:

  • Review these educational ergonomics resources: Ergonomics 101 and Mayo Clinic ergonomics recommendations.
  • You will comply with all thoughtbot security policies and practices.
  • You will comply with all company property policies.
  • You will keep track of your own budget and list all thoughtbot-owned equipment in your Hub devices/equipment (except limited-use incidentals like pens, notebooks, etc.).
  • Items will be returned at the end of working with thoughtbot. If items cannot be returned, the items will become taxable gifts to you at fair market value (FMV) at that time.
  • If you feel you need something beyond your budget, especially for ergonomics or positive health, you should reach out via an appeal process, which is to contact Operations by creating a ticket in Hub with a formal request, and allow thoughtbot the opportunity to respond to the appeal.

Equipment setup guide

When building out your workspace, prioritize ergonomics and consider your holistic experience. One way to prioritize purchases could be:

  1. Basics: desk, comfortable chair, external keyboard, external mouse or trackpad, external monitor with camera.
  2. Supporting ergonomic health: standing desk, ergonomic comfortable chair, ergonomic foot stool, upright ergonomic mouse.
  3. Higher and more productive quality: condenser microphone, nice headphones, laptop stand, more fabulous lighting.
  4. Desk supplies and aesthetics: notebook, pens, curtains/blinds, coffee maker, plants.

You’re welcome to reach out to Operations for prioritization and ergonomic guidance.