The debate continues as to the efficiency of open plan workspaces.
Open plan environments have been very much ‘on trend’ over recent years for their space saving advantages and collaborative working benefits, but more and more studies seem to be highlighting their negatives.
For example, some question whether the noise generated by telephone calls and constant chatter has a positive impact on productivity and many believe that such environments can be intimidating to staff due to the apparent lack of privacy and trust – who wants to be under the constant glare of their boss all day long? There are also studies which show that ‘open plan’ workers are susceptible to greater instances of stress and high blood pressure.
At Metric Interiors we see both sides. By working with our clients and understanding their business we are able to design and deliver work environments that fit entirely with their requirements and those of their staff in order that the positives of open plan working can be appreciated whilst the negatives are avoided.
There are so many simple treatments that can be applied to alleviate any ‘issues’ and so many furniture solutions to meet any requirement that open plan working needn’t present problems.
It needn’t be complicated either. Clever use of partitioning and the integration of office pods can create private/quiet areas which when combined with carefully located ‘team building’, collaborative areas offer the best of both worlds.
We understand that every business is different and each solution is individual. Give us a call on 01784 456850. We would be happy to apply our creative and practical thinking to your workspace.
