To Open Office or Not to Open Office – That is the Question
Top Benefits of an Open Office
For business owners, the advantages of open offices are alluring. Getting more out of less space is the main appeal. With less square feet per employee needed and a cheaper build-out, you can keep your costs down.
For employees, the biggest advantages lie in more efficient collaboration. With no walls, there is faster communication and more approachability through the rankings. Open space allows for a better exchange of information among co-workers because it is easier to ask each other questions and receive quick answers in an open environment.
So, who wouldn’t want an office that costs less money and leads to a better work product?
When Open Offices Go Wrong
As amazing as the open office sounds, it’s not the right fit for every company. You should consider other options if:
Management is not on-board – An open office only works if there’s a true sense of top-to-bottom appreciation of the mission. Bosses must lead by example and embrace the environment by becoming part of the team. The structure will not work if employees are in the open, but top executives seclude themselves in closed offices.
Employees need privacy all the time – In some lines of business, employees require a certain level of privacy on a regular basis due to the nature of their confidential work. Think law offices, accounting firms, and many government contractors.
Bottom Line: If you’re choosing an office plan, don’t just jump on a trend. Carefully consider what’s right for your business. An open office plan may seem likes it’s saving you money, but if you’re making the choice for the wrong reasons, it can cost you instead