I used to simply find a tremendous relief when I found a Starbucks…a warm place to grab coffee and work on my laptop.  Then they discovered the idea of strategically placed outlets so my laptop wouldn't run out of power.

Unfortunately I haven't quite figured out how to ask them to lower the music or the volume of the cappuccino machine if I have a phone call scheduled.  Of course, rainy days and seats by the door in the winter are not ideal but it still works.  Also, I suffer from perpetual curiousity and I can't help but eavesdrop on what everyone is working on. Net-net – Starbuck's logo has become the McDonald's arches for me in terms of what I can expect – a place to go where I can be comfortable and  do my work for hours without worry that I'm not welcome.

Recently, we had a meeting with a company and we noticed they built "huddle rooms."  Given that individuals work in multiple locations, telecommute etc. – what a great way to give individuals a home base.  I think of all the companies in the process of creating new workspaces and relocating employees – I truly hope they've optimized their savings by building in the assumptions that people just don't work in the same space every day 9-5. This truly felt like a flexible environment where individuals were welcome to get their work done however it made sense and delivered a high quality result.

The next day, my commitment to Starbucks was swapped with a new discovery – FedEx/Kinkos by Grand Central Station has their equivalent of a huddle space.  Everything you need plus quiet space to make calls! Of course, since I've been there I've spent money on copies but that's okay as I was more prepared for my meetings. I have since been there 3 times and have told no less than 10 people plus everyone on FP.com about this experience.

Today is Wednesday and I'm back in Starbucks on 42nd & 8th – there are no less than 3 business mtgs; 2 interviews and a few random New Yorker's just grabbing their coffee.  It's February, cold and I'm by the door.

I am convinced that on flexpaths.com we will have a GPS function for all mobile professionals to "find nearby" their optimal co-working spot…stay tuned that will be a 2010 release.  In the meantime, if you know of any spots in NYC that are quality, efficient and effective co-working spaces please post them in the comments below!