

Here are some of the touted benefits of the open office design plan: Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of the open plan office, and an emerging idea that can combine the best features of open design and private work spaces. In the US, open office design plans are used in about 70 percent of offices, according to the International Facility Management Association (IFMA).Īt the same time, in recent years there has been a flurry of negative press about open office design, with critics now saying that it hinders productivity and worker attitudes. Tech companies such as Facebook and Google are leading the movement to open office design, and the idea has become mainstream in Australia and the Netherlands: the Sydney Morning Herald reports that nine out of ten offices in Australia are open plan. There’s a good reason why: the premise is that open office design floor plans tend to promote collaboration among workers, since the lack of barriers encourages more interaction. If someone comes to you with a concern or noise complaint, work with them to come to a solution and try to manage your behavior.Open office design plans that minimize private offices and eliminate walls and doors have been gaining traction since the idea was introduced in the mid-20th century. The person distracting you may not even be aware of a problem. If you do not feel comfortable doing so yourself, ask the manager of the space to do so. If someone else does something you find disrespectful or distracting, talk to them calmly and politely. People will disagree on what behavior qualifies as distracting. If You Have an Issue, Address It Politely If you must come when sick, try to be respectful of others and practice good hygiene, such as sanitizing your workspace. No matter how hard you try, some sniffling, sneezing, and coughing will distract others. You want to avoid spreading germs, and you want to minimize distractions.

There are two main reasons to stay home from an open office if you are sick. It also applies to staying on top of personal grooming to avoid unwanted body odors. This means that one of the ground rules for meetings is to avoid strong-smelling foods, perfumes, or lotions. Since everyone in an open office shares the same space, any strongscent permeates. Do not peer over their shoulder to see what they are working on or intentionally eavesdrop on a short phone call or conversation. In addition to respecting the space of others in the office, respect their privacy.

Ask before encroaching on the space of others 6.
