Herman Miller Introduces Thrive Portfolio to Deliver Total Ergonomic Solutions
Herman Miller, Inc., is introducing a comprehensive new portfolio of industry-leading, research-based ergonomic products called Thrive at NeoCon 2010. Thrive combines health-positive products with guidance on using them properly to give customers total ergonomic solutions. The product offering will include a wide array of personal desktop work tools, including items from the company's earlier "Be Collection," as well as ergonomic seating, lighting, and ergonomic tables and desks.
"Thrive focuses on helping people feel good so they can work better," says Jack Cottrell, Senior VP of Emerging Product Categories. "Research has made the connection clear. And we make that connection better than anyone by combining health-positive products with guidance on using them properly. As a result, people will be safer, happier, and more comfortable—so they can thrive—in offices, schools, and hospitals."
Thrive builds on the company's 35-year-plus history of ergonomics research and design leadership.
"In 1976, we introduced applied scientific ergonomics to the furniture industry with the design of the Ergon chair," say Matthew Tedesco, Herman Miller Workplace Issues and Ergonomics Consultant. "We haven't let up since. We recently introduced the Envelop desk, with a surface that moves so you, your chair, and your technology stay in healthy alignment. There's also the updated Wishbone monitor arm, the first in its category. And at NeoCon, we're introducing the versatile, adjustable Everywhere tables."
Tedesco notes that other products will be introduced this fall. Among them is a dynamic monitor arm, Flo, which allows a greater degree of articulation than has ever been achieved before. These products, as well as each Thrive product and how they're applied, begins with people. Herman Miller studies individuals, organizations, and the purpose of their work. The products that result, and their intelligent application, can actually improve human health.
"No matter what people are doing, they need to thrive," says Bill Dowell, Herman Miller Corporate Ergonomist. "In an ideal economy, people make the difference. Sure, they need to have proper comfort so their organizations avoid the financial cost of lost workdays and health claims. But what's really needed is to actually improve people's health so they can perform at their best."
In launching this focus on health-positive environments, Thrive has added the expertise of U.K.-based Colebrook Bosson Saunders (CBS). Herman Miller acquired the company in March of this year. The company is an excellent fit given its global standing as a pioneer in delivering innovative, elegant ergonomic solutions. CBS global operations, headquartered in London, will remain independent in international markets, while the CBS team in the U.S. will form the nucleus of a sales and service team supporting the Herman Miller Thrive program in North America.
With a dedicated team, and an emphasis on applied research, new product design, and consultative sales, the Herman Miller Thrive portfolio will continue to lead in creating supportive environments that enable individuals to work at their most safe, effective, and motivated levels. |
