Pros and Cons of an open plan office
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Today
large, open plan offices have become the norm across both small
and large organisations all over the world. The main benefit and
thinking
behind the open design comes from keeping costs at bay, hugely welcomed
in the
current economy.
Undeniably,
being in such close proximity to colleagues can have their
good and bad points. From too much noise, to believe it or not too
little
noise, join us as we weigh up the pros and cons of working in an open
plan
office.
PROS
? Improvement
of staff communication
Inevitably
being in close contact with your colleagues will lead to
greater opportunities for discussion, and encourage the sharing of
ideas- with
an open plan office communicating becomes easier and much more
efficient.
? Boost
in morale and productivity
Without
walls and doors to create a more isolated working environment,
an open plan office creates a more informal environment. Impromptu
discussion
can help foster good professional and personal relationships, and is a
positive
influence in team building. It could even push you to stay competitive
amongst
your colleagues.
? Reduction
on overheads
A
huge pull factor for employers, an open plan office dramatically
reduces the amount of floor space needed, meaning that more employees
can be
housed in a smaller space. You will be using less heating and
electricity too,
a greener approach to office space.
? Easily
allows for expansion
If
business is booming and you are regularly recruiting, an open plan
office can quickly be changed with minimal effort. A simple addition or
reshuffle of desks can be a quick and easy solution for a growing
workforce,
offering the ultimate in workplace flexibility.
? Streamlined
management process
As
everyone is in a centralised area, it is easier for managers to keep
track of their employees and the progress they are making. Managers are
more
likely to be in constant contact, therefore problems are dealt with
quicker and
issues solved before they start to spiral out of control.
CONS
X Too
much noise
With
telephones ringing, and numerous discussions happening
simultaneously around your desk, noise is one of the biggest problems
in an
open plan office. Not even the best multi- tasker can keep up
with two
conversations at once! Unfortunately, the distraction of noise at work
has been
linked to a decrease in productivity and increased stress levels.
X Too
little
noise
On
the other hand, deathly silence can also cause issues in an open plan
office. People may be reluctant to talk in a very quiet office as they
will be
aware that their colleagues will be able to hear their conversations,
meaning
that levels of communication are actually reduced.
X Lack
of
privacy
Working
on confidential projects can be difficult. Those working close
to you can have easy access to your computer screen and be able to
listen in on
important phone calls. Security risks may also be an issue, as there
are fewer
locks and obstacles for an intruder to face.
X Spreading
of
germs
Being
in close proximity means a hot bed for infections to spread.
Coughs, colds and flus spread like wildfire in an open environment,
meaning
that your entire workforce could be out of action at the same time.
X Constant Interruptions
If
you have a deadline to meet, then the “stop, start” interruptions
from your colleagues wanting advice or guidance can be terribly
distracting.
Although you can turn off email, it is not so easy to limit such
interruptions
caused by your co-workers.
As
we are constantly connected, at work, at home and on the go, perhaps
the approach of an open plan office is losing its appeal. Employees may
double
their productivity working at home or even in a more informal location
such as
coffee shop from time to time. No matter what, due to their economic
influence,
open plan offices are still here to stay.
Do
you enjoy working in an open plan office, or would your productivity
levels benefit from a rethinking of an office layout?
About the Author
Easy Offices
(UK) was formed in 1999 and since then has grown to become one of the
UK's leading specialist advisers on serviced offices, office space and
virtual offices around the country. We offer
solutions to both businesses and individuals. You
can access our service online, by telephone on 0808 231 8103.
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Article Published/Sorted/Amended on Scopulus 2013-11-30 14:22:38 in Business Articles
