Many offices are now using an open-space design instead of providing workers with enclosed workspaces. This change results in a number of benefits and drawbacks but the efficiency of work also relates to the employee’s preferences.
Using an open-space design may help workers in some ways. One is encouraging collaborative environment where team members can see one another and approach colleagues in a flexible way. Another advantage is more transparency as employees can see one another at all times and managers can recognize who is productive and who is failing to do their job properly. These reasons combined can explain the growing popularity of open-space design, especially in IT companies.
There are several disadvantages of such design, too. The most obvious one is being in a noisy and chaotic environment, a factor that can seem disturbing for many. Constantly being in an open-space may distract workers and compromise their productivity. Another less apparent drawback is the lack of order as open-space designs may favor hot-desking, meaning workers may not have assigned seats. Such lack of organization may also be discouraging for a certain group of employees who prefer leading an organized lifestyle.
It appears that the open-space framework offers both positives and negatives, but what should not be neglected is that people’s preferences and traits should be considered as well. For instance, working in a transparent room full of people may be a favorable option for extroverted individuals who embrace socialization. In comparison, enclosed spaces may be more preferable among introverted employees who are in need of more privacy.
In summary, there are rational explanations to why open-space design may help or distract people, and companies need to make sure they consider the needs of workers before such a style is applied.