Open space or separate offices: which is better?

Who is the winner in the contest between open space and separate offices?  Of course, both alternatives have some positive and some less positive aspects, but several scientific studies have shown that open space offices limit our privacy, force us into involuntary socialization and have a detrimental effect on the quality of our work.

Over the years, the dilemma between open spaces and separate offices has involved many small to medium-sized companies, including multinationals.  The result has been that, especially in the more rigidly structured companies, dividing walls have been knocked down in the name of sharing.

Despite the fact that this choice can bring benefits regarding factors such as the optimal use of space and the reduction of costs, the number of distractions to which the workers are subjected is certainly very high.

Companies such as Facebook, Google, eBay and American Express have all moved towards shared offices for the above-mentioned reasons, but also to facilitate their managers’ monitoring of their colleagues’ work.

Whatever people might say however, a quick break to check your emails or your profiles on the social networks is necessary during the course of the working day.  In addition, research from 2013 shows that the distractions present in open space offices cause a drastic fall in workers’ productivity.

Other people speaking loudly, background music and incessant phone calls are some of the things which can interrupt employees’ concentration.  Furthermore, the situation gets worse when the people in these spaces have projects to be completed.

In order to limit the problem, some separate areas away from the shared space must be provided, where colleagues can go if they need peace and quiet.  These are like small oases of peace where workers can get back in touch with their creative side.

Another effective solution is that of allowing workers to work from home for at least some periods.  As confirmed by several studies, this alternative increases the productivity of the individual worker and reduces their need to take breaks.

In conclusion, it is clear that in the contest between open spaces and separate offices it the latter which should be the winner.  Despite this however, more and more companies are favouring the reduction of costs over maximizing performance.

Translated by Joanne Beckwith