When I saw Quill’s infographic on open office spaces ,I was curious.I remembered my time in the cavernous library at Calcutta Medical College .It was study- hall cum library ,with open cubicles on either side ,as well as a long stretch of polished oak table with benches.
When I used to sit at the common table,I did 3 things:
- Check out who is coming in ,going out.
- Check whether interesting company was around.
- Check whether I was away from people who read aloud.
Anything but study.But the cubicles were different .Though open,if I sat with my back towards the entry I actually did study.Good thing the librarian didn’t allow too much talking.Group studying before semesters and entrance exams all happened there.So I have fond memories of cubicles in the library !Productivity for me needed a little privacy.This study on open offices reinforced my own experiences.
Offices are places that depend on collaboration. Employees share ideas, hurdles, setbacks, and solutions, helping to make their jobs and their brands better. So an open office should fit into that goal with no problems—right?If only things were that simple.Life rarely gives a black and white answer.What appeared like an answer to prayers of equality and friendship was anything but.
Like everything there are pros and cons to open offices. The trend found traction in the 1970s, and it’s grown so popular that nearly three-fourths of American workers go to a job every day that’s in an open office. And they do encourage collaboration and socialization, but they can also be a detriment to productivity. Discover for yourself what’s good and bad about open offices.
What kind of office do you like working in?
Do you think a little privacy is needed?
What about sound pollution and mental health?
Comment below to let me know about your ideal office.I have heard great things about Google!
Personally like open spaces gives more room to speak.. however there are sometimes few annoying characters when I would feel wish there was a shut door..heheh