When you think about the numerous advantages that whiteboards offer, from facilitating collaborations and engagements in classrooms and offices to helping managers and teams express their thoughts more effectively, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the plethora of choices currently on the market. But fear not! Whether you’re updating an old classroom, equipping a new training room, or simply looking to improve your hybrid working space, this handy guide will help you navigate the maze of options and find the perfect whiteboard for your needs.

First Things First: Determining the Right Type of Whiteboard for Your Needs

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to whiteboards, so the first step is to determine your specific needs.

• Size: Whiteboards range in size from mini whiteboards to large wall-sized versions. Wall-sized whiteboards are excellent for large meetings or classrooms, but they also occupy valuable wall space, so it’s essential to consider the size of your venue or workspace. On the other hand, smaller whiteboards are versatile and portable, great for annotating and illustrating presentations or training sessions.
• Orientation: Whiteboards come in both horizontal and vertical orientations. Horizontal whiteboards are the most versatile and provide more writing space, while vertical whiteboards can be useful for presentations or when you want to express information in the form of bullet points.
• Location: Will your whiteboard be movable or stationary? Ideally, you want your whiteboard to be in a visible and accessible place for collaborations and presentations.
• Uses: Consider how you plan to use your whiteboard. Will it be a space for brainstorming and ideation? A tool for teachers, trainers, or presenters? A private workspace for individuals? A visual communications hub for hybrid teams? The answers to these questions will help you decide the best way to equip your new whiteboard.

Cleaning and Maintenance

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a whiteboard is how easy it is to clean. No matter the surface, all whiteboards will show some ghosting (faint marks) after a few strokes, and some whiteboards may be more prone to staining or ghosting than others. It’s essential to consider how often your whiteboard will be used and what kinds of markers you will be using when deciding on a board.

• Glossy vs. Matte Finish: Glossy whiteboards are the easiest to clean, as they repel stains and ghosting more effectively. However, they come with a caveat: they also tend to be more expensive and show reflections more easily. Matte whiteboards, on the other hand, are better at concealing streaks and reflections but can be more challenging to clean and are more prone to staining and ghosting over time.
• Cleaning Materials: It’s important to use the right cleaning materials to maintain your whiteboard’s best condition. Most whiteboards come with specialized erasers, cleaners, and instructions on how to keep them in good condition. Using the wrong materials can lead to damage, stains, and ghosting.

Markers and Accessories

The accessories that come with your whiteboard can make or break your user experience. Here’s what to look for:

• Markers: Look for markers with a wide variety of colors, including high-contrast colors such as black, red, and orange for those with color blindness. You’ll also want to make sure the markers have a range of tip sizes for different writing and drawing styles. Moreover, it’s crucial to determine whether the whiteboard will require special markers (e.g., magnetic whiteboard markers) and whether these are readily available and affordable.
• Eraser: Whiteboard erasers have evolved from simple felt boards to more advanced and efficient technologies. Some whiteboards come with built-in erasing technology (e.g., a special erasing button or a particular spray) that makes it easier to erase annotations and markings.
• Accessories Storage: Keep your workspace organized by ensuring your whiteboard comes with storage for markers and erasers. Whether a special tray or an extra cabinet, having a dedicated space to keep your accessories together will boost the usability of your whiteboard.

Installation and Hardware

Whiteboards are usually installed on walls, but they can also be mounted on mobile stands, making them portable. It’s essential to consider how the whiteboard will be installed and whether it comes with all the necessary hardware (e.g., screws, hooks, brackets).

• Mounting Equipment: Some whiteboards come with a rolling stand, which can be useful if you need a portable whiteboard. However, wall-mounted whiteboards are permanent fixtures that save floor space and stay secure during presentations or collaborations.
• Wall Conditions: Consider the conditions of your wall before you decide to install a whiteboard. Walls with studs are the strongest and most secure option for holding up a whiteboard, but you may opt for a different type of wall mount if this isn’t an option. Also, keep in mind that you’ll need to drill holes in your wall for the mounting hardware, and these holes may affect your ability to remove or reposition the whiteboard in the future.
• Whiteboard Conditions: Consider the weight and dimensions of the whiteboard before you install it. Heavier whiteboards (especially those on rolling stands) may be more difficult to maneuver, so it’s essential to ensure the installation is correct to avoid damaging the wall or the whiteboard itself.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right whiteboard doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By weighing these essential factors—from usage and cleaning to installation and accessories—you’ll be able to find the whiteboard that best suits your needs. And remember, whichever type of whiteboard you choose, the real fun begins when you start using it!