Emergent Research is studying the impact of co-working on Americans, including independent consultants, small business owners, and other workshifters. As part of that research, they've identified over 250 co-working spaces in the United States. The requirements for the spaces included membership options, community space, and catering to those using the facility for work-related purposes.

I'm not surprised by the spike in formal co-working arrangements over the last two years. The best ones seem to be mini idea incubators, places were entrepreneurs can come together, bounce concepts around informally, and feed off the collective energy and passion in the room.

Twitter is my co-working space. Sure, it's not the only one. But it is one place I go when I'm looking for inspiration or someone to talk to. And I like the idea of not having a set office space I have to commute to, which feels too much to me like obligation. The whole concept of workshifting for me is that I have the freedom to work in my office, on my rooftop deck, or at my favorite wifi-enabled café.

But that's just me. What's your take on co-working?

Photo Credit: ashley_drydens